Academic Catalog

FILA: General Education Curriculum

At BC, the focus isn’t just on selecting a major. The general education curriculum focuses on tangible skills that will prepare students for their future. The general education program is called “Foundations in Liberal Arts” or FILA. The Latin word fila means threads (or filaments), and it is with these foundational liberal arts courses that a student weaves the fabric of their education.

Students also develop the ability to engage in a global society through meeting a modern language requirement, taking a class focused on learning deeply about another culture, and taking a class examining issues related to globalization.

Students engage ideas across the liberal arts areas of study by taking:

one course in the social sciences (such as economics, political science, psychology and sociology)

four courses in the humanities (one in fine arts, one in literature, one in history and one in philosophy or religion)

one natural or physical science with a lab (biology, chemistry, environmental science, geology or physics)

The experience culminates in the integration of community engagement. Students take at least one course designated as experiential, which could be a May Term travel course, a practicum, experiential service-learning or other courses that has the student interact with the community outside the classroom.

FILA is flexible, giving the student a variety of choices to fulfill the requirements. This leaves room for adding an additional major, adding a minor or a concentration, studying abroad or completing an internship. Choosing the elements of a liberal arts education is a creative process, and with the courses (or threads) of FILA, the student will weave the fabric of a personalized education.

FILA-150 or FILA-350: FILA Seminar or FILA Integration Seminar

FILA-150 or FILA-350: is BC’s first-year/transfer student seminar. Students take this class at the very beginning of their time at BC—the fall semester of their first year.

Course topics for FILA-150 are extremely varied and diverse. Transfer students have a unique course topic as well, while Flory Fellows can choose from two honors sections.

Note: Transfer students sign up for FILA-350, and honors students in the Flory Fellows program have separate sections of FILA-150.

FILA-450: Personal Development Portfolio

During the senior year, students complete the senior e-portfolio. The final senior e-portfolio includes:

A record of the student's academic achievements and community engagement experiences

The student's current resume and cover letter

A senior reflective essay, which shows the student's growth and development throughout the college experience

The Foundations in Liberal Arts (FILA) Program Requirements

Master Core Skills

Taught in the style of a seminar; a small group
of students learn thinking skills through
discussion, debate, peer review and
brainstorming. Content varies from section to
section. Incoming students select topic
preferences and then are assigned to a section.
Focuses specifically on two key areas of personal
development: (1) intellectual growth is
stimulated through systematic critical
questioning, and (2) a sense of community
involvement and responsibility is developed
through classroom group work, collaborative
learning and a class community engagement
project. The course also contains success skill
exercises and college orientation information,
including an introduction to the portfolio
program.
FILA general education: master core skills

Introduction to the academic community of
Bridgewater College, the liberal arts and the
skills of critical thinking specifically designed
for transfer students. Taught in the style of a
seminar: a small group of students engage in
discussion, debate, peer review and
brainstorming. Content varies from section to
section. Focuses specifically on two key areas of
personal development: (1) intellectual growth is
stimulated through systematic critical
questioning, and (2) a sense of community
involvement and responsibility is developed
through classroom group work, collaborative
learning and a class community engagement
project. The course also contains success skill
exercises and college orientation information,
including and introduction to the portfolio
program.
FILA general education: master core skills

Introduction to academic expository and
argumentative writing, with a focus on developing
rhetorical skills and practices appropriate to a
range of disciplines. Instruction in ethical use
of material from sources and academic
documentation systems. Supplementary writer's
workshop required, based on placement.
FILA general education: master core skills

Teaches students how to create and respond to
verbal and nonverbal messages across a variety of
rhetorical situations. Students will learn the
core concepts of public speaking and develop the
skills to select, organize, and deliver material
based on the needs of a specific audience. The
course will focus on informative and persuasive
speaking, and may also include introductory
speeches, special-occasion speeches, and business
presentations.
FILA general education: master core skills

The courses are logically divided into four
primary areas: arithmetic, geometry, algebra, and
problem solving. Each of the four areas is
studied in both terms. The theory of problem
solving is an integral part of all aspects of the
courses. The study of arithmetic includes the
theory arithmetic operations and the development
of skills in computation; number theory and
patterns in sequences of numbers are used to
introduce the basics of mathematical proofs. The
study of geometry includes identification of
plane and solid geometric shapes, computations of
perimeter, area and volume, and trigonometry of
right triangles. The study of algebra includes
basic algebraic operations, computation using
functions, and graphing.
FILA general education: master core skills

This course is designed to provide development of
basic computational skills and introductory
algebra concepts like solutions of single
variable equations. It will also cover some
introductory statistics and probability concepts.
Problem solving will be emphasized. The course
will contain at least one project that requires
students to make extensive use of spreadsheet
software like Excel.
FILA general education: master core skills

-or (exempt based on placement testing) -

ES Activity

Engagement in Global Society

World Culture Through Language (Two courses, 0–6 credit hours)

One course in world language at the 102, 201, or 202 level (3 credits)A placement credit for 202 in World Language course will exempt a student from this requirement.

Degree-seeking international students may petition the provost and vice president for academic affairs to request that their native language and proficiency in English as a second language satisfy the world culture through language requirement.

World Cultures and Global Dynamics (Two courses, 6 credit hours)

One course in World Cultures (3 credit hours)Requires a prerequisite of FILA-150 or FILA-350

An introduction to the visual arts and culture of
Spain. Emphasis is on both historical and
contemporary works of art and architecture,
taking into consideration who and what influenced
the artists and architects. Students are
introduced to Spanish culture through food,
music, markets, historical landmarks, and its
landscapes and cityscapes. Visits include art and
history museums, local markets, castles,
cathedrals and other culturally relevant sites.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: world cultures and
experiential learning

This course examines the historical similarities
and differences between American media and
European media. The course will involve
approximately a week of classes on the
Bridgewater campus prior to traveling to several
locations throughout Europe. Three major themes
will be explored: 1) the use of persuasion and
propaganda techniques employed during World War
II and the Cold War, 2) the development of the
European television and film industry (prior to
WWII and after it), and 3) issues of media
conglomeration, globalization, and the influence
of the American film and television industry on
Europe. Cities that may be toured include:
London, Munich, Prague, Berlin and Paris. (The
exact cities to be visited will change each year
based on availability of speakers, film
festivals, and museum special exhibits.)
Additional costs associated with travel.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: world cultures and
experiential learning

Explores the role played by traditional American
culture, including music, narrative, medicine,
vernacular architecture, and folk art and craft.
Much of the course will concentrate on the folk
culture of the Shenandoah Valley.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: world cultures
Offered alternate years

Study of major writers of 19th and 20th century
Russian literature. Texts are read in English
translation. Some study of Russian culture is
included.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: world cultures

Anthropological survey of Native North American
and Meso-American cultures, examining features
such as traditional subsistence patterns, kinship
structures, religious beliefs and practices,
social and political structures, artistic
expression, and intellectual history. Focuses on
the literary heritage of Native American
cultures, beginning with the oral tradition and
storytelling, and continuing on to the "Native
American Renaissance", the proliferation of
Native American authors and poets that began in
the 1960s and continues to the present.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: world cultures
Offered alternate years

Comparison of the similarities and differences
between varied World Health Organization ranked
global healthcare systems. Emphasis will be
placed on exploring delivery, financing, and
effectiveness of services within various
healthcare systems, with a special focus on
sports medicine and related prevention and
intervention resources for athletes. The class
will travel to Italy and Hungary for 14 days.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: world cultures

An introduction to the life, culture, and history
of France. Through homestays with families,
daily language classes and various excursions,
students will be immersed in the life and culture
of France to experience firsthand the French
lifestyle through its art, food, music,
marketplaces, historical landmarks, and
landscapes.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and FREN-101
or placement
FILA general education: world cultures and
experiential learning

This interdisciplinary travel course (World
Languages and Cultures/History) examines the
history and diverse cultural memory of the First
and Second World Wars in Britain, France, and
Belgium. While gaining firsthand experience of
contemporary culture and society in theses
western European nations, the class will focus on
specific sites of memory and history of these
conflicts, including London, Paris, Normandy, the
Somme, Verdun, and southern Belgium. Studying
both literature and historical documents,
students will gain an intimate knowledge of the
landscapes, experiences, and legacies of the
world wars within the discreet cultural contexts
of Britain, France, and Belgium.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: world cultures
(Cross-listed as HIST-307)

Introduction to French culture and its
Revolution. Emphasis is on the intellectual,
artistic, political, social, economic, and
educational factors. Taught in French.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350; and FREN-202
or permission of instructor
FILA general education: world cultures

Introduction to French culture and its
historical development after the Fall of the
Ancient Regime and a study of modern-day France,
including geography, and consideration of
intellectual, artistic, political, social,
economic and educational factors. Taught in
French.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350; and FREN-202
or permission of instructor
FILA general education: world cultures

Study of specific topics related to the French
language, culture and civilization. May
be taken more than once provided different topics
are covered. Taught in French.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350; and FREN-202
or permission of instructor
FILA general education: world cultures

This course provides a broad introduction to
German history and culture and to the field of
German Studies. Taught in English, it is an ideal
course for students considering a minor in
German, a concentration in German Studies, or for
those with a general interest in history and
culture of German-speaking countries.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350; and ENG-110
FILA general education: world cultures and
writing intensive

Study of German cultures and media by traveling
to German-speaking countries, such as Germany,
Austria or Switzerland and other relevant
European sites.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: world cultures and
experiential learning

Examines remembrance as it takes shape in
monuments, memorials, and museums. Students
critically engage with conceptions,
conversations, and controversies around memory at
the intersection of history, memory studies,
public/ digital history, and museum studies.
Students use documents, images, and scholarship
to explore different sites, traveling to
monuments, memorials, and museums.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and a 100 or
200-level history course
FILA general education: world cultures

Course covers the development of Western Europe
from the collapse of the Roman Empire to the
beginnings of the Renaissance with emphasis on
the ideas, individuals and events that shaped the
period. Topics include daily life for the masses,
evolution of political and religious thought,
consolidation of state and religious authority,
cultural shifts and the rise of a persecuting
society, and medieval warfare.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: world cultures

Surveys developments in European history from
the French Revolution to the present day. Major
topics include the French Revolution and
Napoleonic Europe, industrialization, the rise of
new ideologies and systems of thought, the new
Imperialism, the World Wars and the Holocaust,
rise and fall of communism, and the place of
Europe in the world in the early 21st century.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: world cultures
Offered alternate years

Examines political, economic, and culture trends
in British history from the ?Glorious Revolution?
of 1688 to the present day. Modern Britain stands
as one of the cornerstones of the contemporary
world, and its politics and culture influenced
global society in countless way, ranging from
soccer to modern environmentalism to
constitutional law. The course focuses on several
major themes, including the role of religion,
finance, and industry, the royal family, sport,
and, most important of all, "social class," in
building British society. Students will acquire a
basic understanding of the major driving forces
of modern British history and the ways that they
compare and interrelate with Europe, the United
State, and the world.
Prerequisites: FILA 150 or FILA 350
FILA general education: world cultures
Offered alternate years

Examines the history of American Indians from
pre-contact civilizations and cultures to the
present. It demonstrates the diversity of
individual, tribal, national, and pan-Indian
experiences in the context of culture, society,
religion, economics, politics, and law. Students
investigate a variety of sources including
scholarly and popular non-fictional and fictional
writings, images, songs, and films.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: world cultures
Offered alternate years

Examines the history of western intervention,
imperialism, and "nation building" in Central
Asia and Afghanistan from the initial periods of
Russian and British expansion into the region in
the early eighteenth century to the American and
NATO intervention in Afghanistan in the
twenty-first century. Major themes include
cultural and political interaction between local
societies and the British, Russians, Soviets and
Americans.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: world cultures
Offered alternate years

Survey of East Asia (China and Japan) from 1800
to the present. Emphasis is upon the different
paths towards modernity taken by each society,
the
conflicts involved in the attainment of
modernity,
and the impact of the West during the period.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: world cultures
Offered alternate years

Surveys the history of Modern Africa from the era
of the trans-Atlantic slave trade to the present
and places special emphasis on sub-Saharan
Africa. It approaches the history of the
continent
through consideration of the nature and impact of
European intrusion into African societies and
African responses to European imperialism.
Moreover, the course examines how independent
African nations have addressed the legacies of
their history and the challenges independence has
posed for African nations. Special topics
include Apartheid, the struggle against
segregation, African women, feminism,
development, and the difficulty in creating
viable democracies and stable economies in the
late twentieth-century.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: world cultures

This courses explores the history of genocide.
Examines origins of and paths to genocide,
including dynamics tied to imperialism, race, and
nationalism; also investigates the conception of
the word 'genocide' and the development of
critical genocide studies as a field of inquiry.
Specific case studies that occurred in modern
history as well as broader themes give students
the opportunity to wrestle with and compare
historical dynamics, historiographical
discussions, and theoretical conceptions.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: world cultures
Offered alternate years

A study of major themes, questions, events, and
problems in European history chosen by the
instructor. The course will include the
examination of primary documents and/or artifacts
and explore the implications of the theme on the
cultures, economics, and social systems of the
region. Examples include the Greeks and the
Romans, the Crusades, the Renaissance, the
Protestant Reformation, and others.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: world cultures

Covers key topics in the modern history of France
since 1871. Survey of the modern period of French
history through the lens of a special topic.
Topics may include France at war in the 20th
century, French intellectuals and the world,
multicultural France, or social transformation in
modern France.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: world cultures

Examines key events in the
relations among Japan, China, and the United
States since the mid-19th century, exploring not
only diplomatic and political but
also cultural relations among the three
societies. Topics include migration, WWI,
internationalism of the 1920s, WWII, Chinese
Civil War, and Cold War. By exploring Asian and
American experiences of these key events from
international and transnational perspectives,
nationalistic narratives that are
prevalent in all societies will be challenged.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: world cultures

Analyzes Germanic culture contributions by
traveling to Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.
Language, philosophical influences, and
theological developments determine the itinerary
for the course. Modern history from 16th century
to the present suggest sites to be visited.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: world cultures
Offered on demand

Analyzes the historical and cultural roots
of Western culture with special concern for
the religious and philosophical heritage. Fifteen
days of travel are combined with the academic
study of the historical sites, literature, art,
and concepts of these extraordinary ancient
civilizations.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: world cultures
Offered alternate years

Comparative analysis of contemporary Latin
American politics and governments. Considers
political and economic themes, noting especially
the challenges of democracy, development and
inequality. Examines the region's relationship
with the rest of the world, including the United
States.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: world cultures

Studies six contemporary films that depict
encounters between members of several world
religions including Native American, Christian,
Buddhist, Jewish, Shinto, Hindu and Muslim
traditions. Explores inter-religious expressions
from curiosity to resentment and hostility to
reconciliation within the context of historical,
political and inter-cultural crises and
evolutions.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: world cultures

The history, sociology, and archaeology
of Palestine as these disciplines relate to the
literature, religions, and cultures of ancient
Hebrew society and early Christianity. Following
the first week of study on campus, two weeks are
devoted to visiting sites of biblical and
religious importance in Israel and Jordan.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: world cultures
Offered on demand

Major living religions of the Near East stressing
a sympathetic understanding of the illumination,
which is provided the adherents of each for daily
living, as well as some of the cultural
expressions of each in those societies where they
flourish. Religions studied include Judaism,
Christianity, and Islam.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: world cultures
Offered alternate years

Major living religions of the Far East stressing
a sympathetic understanding of the illumination,
which is provided the adherents of each for daily
living, as well as some of the cultural
expressions of each in those societies where they
flourish. Religions studied include Hinduism,
Buddhism, and native Chinese religion.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: world cultures
Offered alternate years

Human biology and evolution as seen through
genetics, races, archaeology, and prehistory; and
the diversity and uniformity of human behavior as
seen through cross-cultural studies. The growth
and spread of culture in time and space are
reviewed; the impact of urbanization,
industrialization and technological trends on the
nature and quality of man's life are examined.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: world cultures
(Credit may not be received for both SOC-201 and
SOC-202).

An historical and cultural study of Japan, with
particular attention to religion, government, and
the arts. Consideration is given to daily life
in Japan and current problems and changes
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and SOC-101
FILA general education: world cultures

The racial, social, and cultural history of
Africa in ancient and modern times. Attention is
given to the impact of urbanization and to
African
responses to Western values and institutions as
carried to the continent by the Colonial powers.
Contemporary political and socioeconomic trends
and problems.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and SOC-101
FILA general education: world cultures

Study of contemporary topics and world issues
related to the cultures of the Spanish-speaking
world. Explores political, social and economic
structures through literature, film, the visual
arts, and/or music. Taught in English. Credit
available for Spanish majors and minors upon
completion of a Spanish language component.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: world cultures

Travel course requiring immersion homestay and
language courses in the capital city. Covers
themes of Central American life and cultures.
Includes excursions out of the city to gain a
greater awareness of the whole society within the
regional context.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: world cultures

This course is an introduction to the life,
culture, and history of Spain. Through homestays
with families, daily language classes, and
various excursions, students will be immersed in
the life and culture of Spain to experience
firsthand the Spanish lifestyle through its art,
food, music, marketplaces, historical landmarks
and landscapes.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350
General education: world cultures and
experiential learning

This course will explore the development of the
science fiction genre in various Latin American
countries and how the unique sociopolitical and
cultural contexts of this region have produced
sci-fi literature, comics, and films that stand
apart from their canonical English-language
counterparts. We will examine the evolution of
Latin American science fiction production from
its first manifestations in colonial literature
to present-day cultural products, focusing on how
each literary era reflects and engages with major
sociohistorical changes in Latin America. Through
critical reading of Latin American sci-fi novels,
short stories, comics, and films, students will
identify and discuss issues of historical memory,
gender, race, politics, mass media,
globalization, religion, social justice and how
these relate to the authors and countries we will
study. Primary sources (literary works, film)
will be in Spanish, while textbook(s) and
supplemental academic materials (articles,
critical theory chapters) may include both
Spanish and English. Class will be conducted in
Spanish.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and SPAN-202
FILA general education: world cultures

This course will examine the social construction
of masculinity in the Hispanic world. We will
read about and study concepts such as honor,
shame, sexual identity, machismo and their
correlated societal effects. We will also
research and discuss the topics of gender
relations and sexuality and how these themes
intersect with issues of race, class, and
politics. We will explore the construction of
masculinity in specific areas such as sports
(futbol) and dance (tango, salsa, etc.). Our
readings will primarily be in Spanish but will
come from Spain, Central and South America, and
also the United States.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350; ENG-110 and
SPAN-202
FILA general education: world cultures and
writing
intensive

Human populations throughout the world differ in
their physical appearance, behavior, customs,
lifestyles, etc. Students learn about the
biological basis of human homogeneity and
diversity, and critically examine the construct
of race as a sanctioned method of classifying
human species into different groups.
Consideration of biological principles that
define species and subgroups, and discussion of
key differences between early and modern
techniques that biologists use to classify
organisms. Case
studies and examples from geographic locations
around the world address some of the
enormous social implications (health care,
education, law enforcement) of using faulty
science to group human beings into distinct
racial categories
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350; ENG-110;
MATH-110 or MATH-115 or MATH-118; and BIOL-100 or
BIOL-110
FILA general education: global dynamics
Offered alternate years

Traces the growth and development of the U.S.
economy and economic institutions from the
Colonial era to the present with special emphasis
on key institutions and events, such as slavery,
industrialization, the rise of big business and
the Great Depression.
Prerequisite: ECON-200 or ECON-210
FILA general education: global dynamics

Introduces students to the concept of folk groups
and the ways they have been represented to
mainstream cultures through the media of film and
literature. Explores literature in conjunction
with viewing of film and television depictions of
"the folk" as well as documentary films made by
folklorists.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: global dynamics
FILA alternate years

Introduces students to the elements of American
culture in the interdisciplinary manner of
American studies. After gaining an understanding
of the academic field itself, students explore
the variety of ways to consider American culture
including methodological and genre-based
approaches.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: global dynamics and
writing intensive

A survey of the beliefs and ideas that have shaped American culture from the colonial period to the present. Topics covered may include the rise of consumer culture, cultural attitudes toward the arts, the significance of race and gender in American culture, and the effect of American cultural and political attitudes on the landscape. While gaining knowledge of the United States' cultural past students will acquire an understanding of culture's role in the present state of the nation and the United States' international roles. Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110 FILA general education: global dynamics

A look at the importance of
food and nutrition in individual lives,
communities and nations with emphasis on
non-western and third world countries. It allows
students to develop an understanding of food
customs and the influence of culture and religion
on food habits and health beliefs (ex.
Edible/non-edible foods) while focusing on how
these health beliefs and cultural influences
impact one's actions and nutritional behaviors.
Problems in nutrition as malnutrition and obesity
along with food shortages/excesses and solutions
currently being tried or projected through
national, international and voluntary agencies
are studied. Questions as to what one's health
beliefs and cultural influences are and how these
impact ones' actions are discussed. Laboratory
experiences emphasize cultural influence on
political, ethical, geographic, social and
finally food choices.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: global dynamics

Study of contemporary topics and world issues
related to the cultures of the French-speaking
world. Explores political, social and economic
structures through literature, film, the visual
arts and/or music. Taught in English. Credit
available for French majors and minors upon
completion of a French language component.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: global dynamics

Study of contemporary topics and world issues
related to the cultures of the German-speaking
world. Explores political, social and economic
structures through literature, film, the visual
arts and/or music. Taught in English. Credit
available for German minors upon completion of a
German language component.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: global dynamics

Examines the foundations, nature, and impact of
the Second World War in Africa, the Middle East,
and Asia. Emphasizes the role of ideology,
including fascism, communism, militarism,
imperialism, and colonial nationalism in shaping
the experiences of both western and non-western
powers in these regions from the late 1930s to
1945.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: global dynamics

A travel course that offers a firsthand
examination of the cultural, political, and
religious legacies of three separate empires -
the Delhi Sultanate, the Mughals, and the British
Raj - in contemporary India. While expediting the
vast array of Indian cultures in general,
students will explore a number of past and
current political and religion centers and
examine the role of competing imperial frameworks
in shaping the simultaneous unities and divisions
in modern India. The course will focus on
Northern India, including Delhi, Agra, the Great
Indian Desert (Thar) in Rajasthan, British "hill
stations" in the Himalayas, and the Hindu holy
city of Hardwar on the River Ganges.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: global dynamics
Offered alternate years

Explores women's histories in Asia. Stresses the
construction of gender norms and their evolution
over time and encourages comparison of women's
lives and experiences across various cultural
contexts in Asia. Topics include women's
political rights and participation, women's
education and literacy, women's sexuality and
reproduction, and women's work.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: global dynamics
Alternate years: offered 2019-2020

Analyzes the connection between the medieval
crusading movement and modern Middle Eastern
terrorism by analyzing the historical context for
claims used to justify violent Islamic extremism.
Students work to build a balanced historical
perspective and engage their social
responsibility to present reasoned opinions in
the public discourse over modern terrorism.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: global dynamics
Offered alternate years

Interdisciplinary exploration of the power and
dynamics of human similarities and differences on
a global scale. Covers globalization from the
perspective of identity and difference, and
provides opportunities to question contemporary
assumptions, values and patterns of behavior with
the goal of making global interactions more
constructive and more peaceful.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: global dynamics

Introduces students to the world as a site of
political activity. Examines institutions and
processes on a global scale. Topics include
sovereignty, power, globalization, war,
multilateral institutions, the environment,
trade, development, poverty and a variety of
current events.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: global dynamics

Introduces the diversity of political structures,
processes, cultures, ideologies and change
(revolution, democratization, etc.), as
manifested in multiple national political systems
in the global community. Introduces the
application of social science methods to
political phenomena. Considers the outcomes of
political systems for human well-being.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: global dynamics

Examines human understanding of the institution
of warfare and alternative means of managing
large-scale conflict. Also studies the concept of
peace, including the personal and policy
implications of the various definitions of the
term.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: global dynamics and
writing intensive
Offered alternate years

History, structures, issues and politics of the
United Nations, and a consideration of the
organization's role in world politics. This
course may include travel to New York City or
Washington DC.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: global dynamics
Offered alternate years

A travel course in which students travel
to a site of recent political and social changes
to explore the causes, dynamics and implications
of revolutionary change.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general Education: global dynamics and
experiential learning

This course takes a surveying view of the
political, social and economic consequences of
population movement phenomena focusing on two
central elements: Migration and Identity
Politics. In an effort to accommodate the broad
theme, the course will view population movement
phenomena from the perspectives of immigrants,
host and origin nations, as well as global state
and non-state actors.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110;
PSCI-240 is recommended
FILA general education: global dynamics

An examination of conceptions of human rights,
the global discourse around human rights, and
efforts to protect those rights. Topics include
why governments violate the rights of their
citizens, the role of human rights activism in
shaping global public discourse and affecting the
practices of governments, international human
rights law, and the human rights dimensions of
foreign policy.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general Education: global dynamics and
ethical reasoning

Major themes, questions, problems and events in
global politics as chosen by the instructor.
Students will engage in written and public
discourse concerning topics that are global in
scope and important to understanding politics in
the twenty-first century.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: global dynamics

Political implications of global economic
relations, including such topics as the politics
of trade, monetary relations, financial crises,
development, global systems of production and
consumption and multinational corporations.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: global dynamics and
writing
intensive
Offered alternate years

This course introduces theoretical and practical
paradigms within the emerging field of Interfaith
Studies. It explores how college students can
become interfaith advocates and leaders who shift
public discourse and practices from conflict to
cooperation. It teaches foundational tenets
within multiple religious traditions that
advocate for, and promote, peace; skills inherent
to interfaith advocacy; current interreligious
issues in the news, and successful models of
interfaith understanding and cooperation. It will
provide foundational concepts and skills for
students interested in Global Studies, Interfaith
Studies, and Peace Studies.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: global dynamics

Provides extraordinary opportunities for
Bridgewater students to meet a broad range of
Israelis and Palestinians and learn about their
individual perspectives and shared challenge of
finding peace in the religion. They will listen,
learn, dialogue and do volunteer work with
others. Students will meet Israeli Jews and
Arabs, Palestinian Christians and Muslims,
rabbis, imams, IDF soldiers, settlers and many
peacemakers.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: global dynamics and
experiential learning
Offered alternate years

This course is an introduction to a variety of
political, ethical and social justice issues
surrounding local, national and global food
systems. It includes discussions of food policy,
food security, food waste, food and farm workers'
rights, and the environmental impact and
sustainability of our current food production
systems.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: global dynamics and
ethical reasoning

Introduction to a diverse set of perspectives on
culture and society
using movies as a medium. Important lenses in
cultural studies including critical theory,
postmodernism, postcolonial theory,
feminism/critical race theory, and psychoanalysis
are introduced through "textual" examination of
21st-century films across the global landscape.
This is less a film class than a survey of major
contemporary theories in the humanities and
social sciences. Highly recommended for students
considering graduate studies in the humanities or
social sciences, or for anyone interested in
developing a critical viewpoint on films and
culture in general. Students should be prepared
to view challenging films that may depict
violence, sexual situations, substance abuse
and/or strong language.
Prerequisite: SOC-101 or permission of instructor

The nature of racial relations and inequalities
in American society, including their historical
origins and relationship to Western capitalist
development. The ethnic composition of
contemporary American society, impact of legal
and illegal immigration patterns, dynamics of
modern structures and institutions, the Civil
Rights Movement, inter-ethnic conflicts and
attitudes, multiculturalism and status of
affirmative action are analyzed in the context of
national and global social change.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and SOC-101
FILA general education: global dynamics

Introduction to a variety of conceptual
frameworks and theoretical lenses relating to
human gender and sexualities, including social
constructionism, political economy, and cultural
studies. A critical, global, historical, and
sociological approach will be emphasized to
unpack gendered ad sexualized social structures
like patriarchy, heterosexism, and hegemonic
masculinity. Special attention will be paid to
social movements and challenges to power/resource
inequalities made by gender and sexuality-based
minority groups.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and SOC-101
FILA general education: global dynamics
Offered alternate years

Examination of the growing ethnic diversity in
the Shenandoah Valley through study of
contemporary theories and research on
immigration. Hands-on field experience includes
first-hand interaction with local immigrants and
is particularly beneficial for students seeking
Spanish language, intercultural, and/or
service-learning experience.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and SOC-101
FILA general education: global dynamics
Offered alternate years

How various immigrant groups in New York City
have negotiated their traditional food cultures
upon arrival in the United States. The first
three days of the course will be spent on the
Bridgewater College campus followed by five days
in New York City being guided to various ethnic
immigrant communities around the city and outer
boroughs to explore restaurants, community
centers, food markets and historic and culturally
significant sites, as well as to meet community
members involved in preserving the group's
traditional food culture.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: global dynamics and
experiential learning

Dilemmas, tensions, and theoretical and policy
issues related to the position of Third World
countries in the modern world. Questions of
urbanization, industrialization, modernization,
westernization, and distribution of economic
resources are discussed. Various theories of
development and underdevelopment are critically
examined.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and SOC-101
FILA general education: global dynamics

Travel course to Cuba. The first two weeks will
be spent in Havana with daily language and
culture classes, excursions around the city to
museums, musical events, and other relevant
cultural activities. Students will stay with a
host family in Paris. Week three will be spent
traveling around the island to see and study
Caribbean architecture and colonial heritage.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: global dynamics and
experiential learning

This course is a 10-day travel course to
Argentina. The first six days will be spent in
Buenos Aires with daily cultural excursions
around the city to museums, musical events, dance
lessons, and other relevant cultural activities.
Students will stay in a hotel in the city, in
pairs. While in Buenos Aires, students will
complete research and critical analysis projects
on the impact of dictatorial rule during the
second half of the Twentieth Century in Argentina
and the sociopolitical and cultural changes in
the country since the end of Videla's regime. To
this end, students will visit landmarks such as
the Plaza de Mayo and similar memorial sites and
explore their historical significance and
connections to literature and other cultural
products of Argentina. The last four days of the
trip will be spent at the Iguaz Falls, on the
border with Brazil and Paraguay. We will visit
Iguaz to see and study salient geographic and
cultural features of the region in contrast to
the more urbanized environment of Buenos Aires,
and the cultural, historical, and economic
connections between both.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: global dynamics and
experiential learning
Off-Campus Travel and Cost: Multi-city travel
course to Argentina

Engagement of Ideas Across the Disciplines

An introductory exploration of 3-D forms in
various materials including wood, clay, plaster,
and metals. Emphasis in this course is on
developing technical and critical skills in the
sculpture studio. This course is designed to
provide a foundation for students planning to
take advanced sculpture and ceramics courses. Art
115 also functions as a stand-alone introduction
to the technical and critical aesthetic
fundamentals of sculpture.
Corequisite: ENG-110
FILA general Education: fine arts & music

A studio based exploration of drawing from
observation using basic materials like graphite
and charcoal. This course investigates drawing as
a process generating and critically evaluating
visual ideas as well as producing visual imagery.
Art 130 is a foundation course for students
planning to take advanced art courses in any
medium. As a stand-alone, this course builds
practical and theoretical skills in seeing and
making the 2-D images we call drawings.
Corequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: fine arts & music

An overview of the history of art from the
mysterious cave paintings and carvings of the
Paleolithic to the towering structures of Gothic
cathedrals. This course is a requirement for art
majors and minors and is very highly recommended
to other students as a visual approach to the
study of history and society.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350; ENG 110
FILA general Education: fine arts & music and
writing intensive

An overview of the history of art from the
Renaissance to the present. This course is a
requirement for art majors and minors and is very
highly recommended for other students as a visual
approach to the study of history and society.
Corequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general Education: fine arts & music

Critical study of the visual arts of the last 100
years with emphasis on understanding the
implications of the concepts we know as modernism
and postmodernism.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350; ENG 110
FILA general Education: fine arts & music
and writing intensive

This course is a critical exploration into the
views and theories shaping the production of art
from the late 20th century into the early 21st
century. Starting with an understanding of
postmodernism in an art context, this course
examines the impacts of globalization, identity,
representation and environmental issues as major
paradigms shaping contemporary art practice.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: fine arts & music and
writing intensive

A studio based exploration into visual
communication with typography and images using
Adobe Creative Cloud applications. Emphasis is
placed on the design process and creative
thinking.
Corequisite: ENG-110
FILA general education: fine arts and music

An interdisciplinary hands-on workshop in
creating artist's books-works of art conceived
and produced in book form. Book binding
techniques and experimental approaches to
narrative, materials and form are emphasized.

Learn skills and concepts for collage and
assemblage, the re-purposing of 2D and 3D found
images and objects into unique works of fine art.
This class will examine the history and
evolution of collage and assemblage, and its
place in the world of fine art, applied arts, and
advertising.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350, and ENG-110
FILA general education: fine arts & music

A project based investigation of the materials,
practices, and aesthetics of painting with
emphasis on how these three elements work
together to create compelling 2-D colored images.
This course provides practical and theoretical
foundations for four hundred-level courses in
drawing and painting and for independent work in
these media.
Corequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: fine arts and music

Learn to skillfully and confidently use digital
cameras and software including Adobe Lightroom
and Photoshop to create compelling photographs.
Emphasis is placed on composition, visual
communication and creative process in a
contemporary photography context. Note: Students
must provide a digital camera capable of manual
exposure and Raw image capture.
Corequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: fine arts and music

Learn skills and concepts for studio lighting of
portraits, objects and environments using
continuous lights, strobes, on-camera lighting
and special effects such as light painting. Note:
Students must provide a digital camera capable of
manual exposure and Raw image capture and
shoe-mounted flash or speedlight.
Prerequisites: ART-121 or ART-344

Learn the fundamentals of video production
including camera operation and control,
stationary and moving camera techniques, audio
recording, natural and artificial lighting,
framing and shot structure, and use of nonlinear
editing software. Students will complete hands-on
exercises and assignments designed to build
strong visual and technical skills needed to
produce effective videos and short films.
Corequisites: COMM-100, ENG-110, FILA-150 or
FILA-350
FILA general education: fine arts and music

Study of specific topics related to Fine Arts,
including theatre, visual arts, cinema, and
music. May be taken more than once provided
different topics are covered. Taught in English.
May be taken for credit for French
major/minor/concentration if language
requirements are met.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: fine arts and music

Listening and learning to recognize forms,
styles, composers, and works in Western music
from the early Christian era to the present.
Corequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: fine arts & music

American musical life from colonial times to the
present. Samplings include music following both
the European classical tradition (operatic,
choral, symphonic, etc.) and America's popular
tradition (ragtime, jazz, rock, etc.). Specific
topics in the general areas are treated in detail
by individual research.
Corequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: fine arts and music

Examines how jazz music has mirrored the social
history of the American people, reflecting ethnic
and racial influences, historic events, and
cultural change. Examines the history, styles
and techniques of American jazz through lecture,
audio and video recordings, and live
demonstrations. Increases the appreciation and
enjoyment of jazz.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: fine arts & music
(Cross-listed as SOC-233)

Provides an introduction to music throughout
Latin America through a close examination of five
large musical regions: Brazil, Southern Cone and
the Andean Region, The Caribbean Region, Central
America, and Mexico. Over the semester students
will become familiar with the different styles
and repertoires of these regions. Students will
study the historical background and social
functions of these styles, as well as relevant
composers, performers, and musical instruments.
Different social classes will be included, from
indigenous ritual music to Western Art
(Classical) music by Latin American composers.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: fine arts and music

A survey of musical practices from
around the world and a study of the roles the
music making plays within a cultural context.
Music, culture, and the connection between the
two will be understood through lecture,
recordings, video, and through fieldwork
involving observation and interview.
Corequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: fine arts and music

History of western musical styles from the early
Christian era to 1750, including medieval,
Renaissance and Baroque eras. Listening and
reading assignments focus on specific composers
and works as they relate to historical trends in
musical style. This course presumes that
students are able to read music notation.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350, and ENG-110
FILA general education: fine arts & music and
writing intensive

History of Western musical style including
Classical and Romantic eras as well as music of
the 20th century. Listening and reading
assignments focus on specific composers and works
as they relate to historical trends in musical
style.
FILA general education: fine arts and music

Analytical study of the history of dramatic
music, especially opera and oratorio. Listening
and reading assignments focus on specific
composers and works as they relate to historical
trends in musical style.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general Education: fine arts & music and
experiential learning

In order to fulfill the three-credit fine arts
requirement through music ensemble participation,
students enroll in a large ensemble (MUS-441:
Concert Choir; MUS-442: Chorale; MUS-443:
Symphonic Band; or MUS-444: Jazz Ensemble) for
consecutive fall and spring semesters, earning
two credits. During the spring semester of their
ensemble participation, students also enroll in
MUS-447: Topics for Ensembles in Context. In this
course students further study the repertoire and
musical techniques that they experience from a
performer's perspective in their ensembles.
Repertoire will be examined within historical,
cultural, and theoretical contexts with an
emphasis on engaging critical thinking skills:
analysis, interpretation, and critical listening.
Coursework includes critical reviews of
performances and repertoire, reflections on
musical technique, and discussions
relating to musical interpretation and ensemble
participation. Course may be taken more than once
provided different topics are covered.
Corequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: fine arts and music

Study of specific topics related to fine arts,
including theatre, visual arts, cinema and music.
May be taken more than once provided different
topics are covered. Taught in Spanish.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350; and
SPAN-202
FILA general education: fine arts and music

This course is a study of the history and
production of cinema in the Hispanic world. It
examines the development of the cinematic arts;
studies examples of unique cultural cinematic
production, and analyzes relevant techniques and
historical contexts.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350; and SPAN-202
FILA general education: fine arts and music

This course is an introduction to the many
elements involved in Western theatre production,
with emphases on two of the primary areas of
design, construction and implementation: scenery
and costumes, and an integration with stage
management. The class will explore concepts,
techniques, equipment and materials necessary for
a successful theatrical production, emphasizing
problem solving through research,
experimentation, and collaboration. Students
will be challenged to engage and understand the
interrelationships between the various elements
involved in mounting a stage production, and how
these elements relate to and affect the other
aspects of dramatic art. Previous experience
with theatre is not necessary.
Corequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: fine arts and music

An introduction to the many elements involved in
Western theatre production, with a special focus
on stage management and emphases on two of the
primary areas of design, construction and
implementation: lighting and sound. The class
will explore concepts, techniques, equipment and
materials necessary for a successful theatrical
production, emphasizing problem solving through
research, experimentation, and collaboration.
Students will be challenged to engage and
understand the interrelationships between the
various elements involved in mounting a stage
production, and how these elements relate to and
affect the other aspects of dramatic art.
Previous experience with theatre is not
necessary.
Corequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: fine arts & music
Alternate years: offered 2018-2019

Practical study of the various theories,
techniques and materials used in scenic painting.
Focusing on theory and practice, encompasses a
systematic approach to painting theatrical
scenery. Emphasis on traditional scene painting
techniques, including material selection (brushes
and paints) and their practical application
through design reproductions and faux finishes,
as well as the tools and paints that have been
developed to support those techniques. Students
learn how the theories and techniques of scenic
painting have changed historically, and how these
unique changes have impacted the materials and
techniques utilized by the scenic painter.
Engages with the unique qualities of different
types of paint noting how they perform on
different types of materials, and how that
knowledge can be used to create effective
results. Projects include painting stage drops,
creating stained glass windows with paint, faux
marble and wood grain finishes, photos and
designer renderings.
Corequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: fine arts and music

Traces the development of dramatic
art and the history of theatrical production
from its ritual beginnings to the English
Restoration. It will place dramatic art and
theatre history in context by engaging with the
social, political and cultural conditions of
specific historical moments. Topics of study will
include Greek Drama, Roman spectacle, Sanskrit
Drama, Noh Drama, early Medieval religious and
secular theatre, Italian commedia dell'arte,
Renaissance and Baroque pageantry, and the
English Restoration. The approach will be a
documentary one. Students will read specific play
texts in conjunction with primary evidence, both
textural and pictorial, using both to illuminate
the creation and history of theatre.
Corequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: fine arts and music
Offered alternate years

Survey of post-Restoration theatrical culture,
history and production forms. Though it is a
continuation of the World Theatre History I, the
student need not have taken the previous course.
Students will begin examining theatrical history
and expression in Turkey, China and Japan, and
move across the European continent focusing on
the rise of European modernity. Students will
cover Romantic theatre and opera, melodrama and
poetic
spectacle, Realism, Naturalism and the
independent theatre movement as well as the
innovation of early 20th century theatrical
practitioners. The approach will be a documentary
one. Students will read specific play texts in
conjunction with primary evidence, textural and
pictorial, using both to illuminate the creation
and history of theatre.
Corequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: fine arts and music
Offered alternate years

An exploration of the rich and varied theatrical
scenes in London through nightly attendance at
professional and nonprofessional productions. The
group attends professional West End, classical,
modern, and musical productions. Immersive
theatre, experimental performance, and
alternative theatrical spaces/venues are
explored. Workshops with professionals, theatre
workshops, and back stage tours, as well as
theatrical, historical, and cultural interests
complement the experience as do side-trips to
Stratford-upon-Avon and Shakespeare's Globe
theatre.
Corequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: fine arts and music, and
experiential learning

Acting provides the student with an organized and
practical approach to acting. A systematic
approach to acting through a thorough examination
and application of Konstantin Stanislavski's
system of acting with in depth attention to the
technique of the actor and their use of body and
voice. Textual analysis, scene work, monologues,
auditioning, performance pieces, and various
training exercises will be used. No theatre
experience is necessary.
Corequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
Offered alternate years
FILA general education: fine arts &
music(effective 2016-17)

Designed to introduce the student to the basic
fundamentals of directing plays for the stage.
Students will carefully examine play structure
and analysis, communication with the actor and
designer, and rehearsal process and performance.
Students will explore the work of the director
through laboratory exercise, and short
performance piece where students cast and direct
their own scenes. Examining the techniques of
many of the most influential 20th century stage
directors, students will work towards a technique
that the student can call his/her own. Practical
work will be combined with written analysis in
addition to the final short student-director
production.
Corequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: fine arts and music
Offered alternate years

This course will introduce the student to the
physical, vocal, and mental worlds of various
styles and techniques of non-realistic
performance traditions. Students will experiment
with a variety of acting styles and techniques
including physical, masked, post-modern,
non-western, and devised performance. This
course includes interfaith components of eastern
meditative, movement, and centering practices as
they are linked to acting methods and techniques.
This course is a practical expression of the
theoretical and historical. Textual analysis,
scene work, monologues, and various training
exercises will be used.
Corequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: fine arts & music

Environmental theatre began in the 1960s in
response to the social and political climate of
the time. Performers and performance groups
pushed the boundaries of what was traditionally
thought of as theatre, and as a result,
restructured and reinvigorated the fundamental
understanding of what performance was and its
function within society. Environmental theatre
continues to be a powerful vehicle for social
commentary. The objective of this course is
three-fold: to introduce the student to the
cultural, social, and political richness of
environmental theatre, including site-specific
performance; to provide a historical
understanding of the period by highlighting how
the original practitioners and
their works were directly influenced by cultural
events of the time; and, to involve the student
in the process of creating and performing their
own individual and group site-specific
environmental performance piece.
Corequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: fine arts and music

A study of specific topics related to theatre
including Movement for the Performer,
Playwriting, Set Design, Lighting Design, and
Costume Design. May be taken more than once
provided different topics are covered.
Corequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: fine arts and music & experiential learning

Selected readings of the fiction, drama, poetry,
and non-fiction prose of French literature.
Includes study of French political and cultural
history as a way to examine recurring themes,
innovation, and movements in literature.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: literature and writing
intensive
(Cross-listed as FREN-335W)

Examination of theatrical literature and forms
from the late 19th century well-made plays,
Realism, Expressionism, Futurism and Symbolism,
to Epic theatre and the Theatre of the Absurd.
Playwrights such as Henrik Ibsen, Bernard Shaw,
Anton Chekhov, Eugene O'Neill, Bertolt Brecht,
Samuel Beckett, and others will be studied. The
goals of this course are for students to gain an
understanding of the scope, history, techniques
and influence of Modern Drama.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: literature and
writing intensive
Offered alternate years
(Cross-listed as THEA-360W)

Contemporary theatrical forms of American and
British drama. Begins with post-World War II
dramatic works and moves sequentially to the
present day. Areas of attention include the
"angry young men," metadrama, gender race and
ethnicity, the "new brutalism," and contemporary
docudrama. Particular focus on how play texts
engage with the cultural and historical moment of
their creation. Students gain an understanding of
the scope, history, techniques and influence of
contemporary drama. Playwrights such as John
Osborne, Edward Albee, Eduard Bond, Jose Rivera,
Martin McDonagh, Tony Kushner, Sarah Kane, Suzan
Lori-Parks, Nilo Cruz, Moises Kaufman, Sarah Ruhl
and others are studied.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: literature and writing
intensive
Offered alternate years
(Cross-listed as THEA-362W)

Representative French authors from the Middle
through the 18th-century including social and
historical background. Taught in French.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350; ENG-110 and
FREN 202 or permission of instructor
FILA general education: literature and writing
intensive

Representative French authors from the 19th and
20th centuries. Social and historical background
is included. Taught in French.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350; ENG-110 and
FREN 202 or permission of instructor
FILA general education: literature and writing
intensive

Representative authors, works, and literary
movement of Spain, including social and
historical background. Taught in Spanish.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and SPAN-202
FILA general education: literature

Representative authors, works, and literary
movements of Latin America, including social and
historical background. Taught in Spanish.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and SPAN 202
or permission of instructor
FILA general education: literature

An examination of the multiple global narratives
that comprise human development and interaction
prior to 1500 with primary focus on early human
activity, the development of complex societies,
classical and post-classical ages, and expansion
of post-classical cross-cultural involvement.
Corequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: history

An examination of the multiple global narratives
that comprise human development and interaction
since 1500 with primary focus on the origins of
global interdependence, the ages of revolution,
industry, and empire, and the twentieth century.
Corequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: history

Examines political, economic, and cultural trends
in world history over the course of the twentieth
century with emphasis on the interconnectivity of
world peoples and places. Major themes include
trade, ideology, conflict, culture and
globalization.
Corequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: history

Examines the history of the Pacific Ocean world
from around 1500 to the present. While surveying
the histories of key societies in the
Asia-Pacific region, the course also examines the
intricate connections in this diverse world.
Major themes include cultural encounters, trade,
migration, empires, and conflicts.
Corequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: history

Examines the rise and fall of an Atlantic World
system that tied Europe, Africa and the Americas
into a web of cultural, political and economic
interdependence. Major themes include different
models of New World exploration, colonization by
European colonial powers, missionary activities
and religious migrations, the ramifications of
New World slavery, encounters and conflicts
between native and colonial peoples, and the
development of nation states in the Western
Hemisphere.
Corequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: history

Survey of the African American experience in the
U.S. from 1607 until the present. Emphasizes
the South but incorporates the national
level. Major themes include slavery, slavery
politics, civil rights, family life, black
culture, migration patterns, and religion.
Corequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: history

Examines political, economic, cultural and
religious trends in the greater Middle East from
the birth of Islam in the seventh century to the
present day. Major themes include the origins of
Islam and the rise of Islamic empires and
cultures, the development of an early modern
polity under the Ottomans, European
imperialism, and the influence of nationalism(s),
resources conflicts and religious revival in the
20th and early 21st centuries.
Corequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: history

A survey of modern ethical dilemmas drawn from
the 18th century to the 21st century and from
around
the world that have challenged societies to
rethink their economic, political and social
practices in the interests of ethical or moral
reform. Major themes include the rise of the
abolitionist movement and its relation to human
trafficking today, the moral status of warfare
and various tactics of war such as torture.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: history and ethical
reasoning

Traces the evolution of economic thought from
ancient times to the present with special
emphasis on Adam Smith, the classical school,
socialism, Marx, marginalism, the neoclassical
school, Keynes and Friedman.
Prerequisite: ECON-200 or ECON-210
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
Offered alternate years: 2019-2020

A survey of French thought, drawing together the
evolution of French culture through study of
representative philosophers and theologians.
Taught in English.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350; and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
and ethical reasoning

Examines fundamental themes of philosophy such
as: the possibility and nature of knowledge;
whether or not human beings are free; arguments
for and against the existence of God; the nature
of good and evil; what makes a good life; and
mortality.
Corequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion

Examines pressing moral and philosophical
questions that have become major political issues
of our day. Problems considered include abortion,
sexism, racism, drugs, privacy and censorship,
civil disobedience, and others of interest to the
group.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
and ethical reasoning
Offered alternate years: 2018-2019

A systematic philosophical analysis of the major
entertainment media of modern American culture
aimed at determining the values reflected in and
arising from popular movies, television, comics,
music, and literature. Students select and
research materials from the most popular national
media, assessing the reasons for their extreme
popularity.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
and ethical reasoning

Confronts a number of modern
scientific and ethical problems including
abortion, genetic testing, genetically modified
plants and animals, stem cells, gene therapy,
research on humans, and physician-assisted
suicide. Biology and biotechnology often confound
our notions of right and wrong, and what ethical
behavior is.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general Education: philosophy or religion
and ethical reasoning
Offered alternate years

Skills of reasoning for solving problems found in
ordinary language, deductive and inductive
formats, and in common fallacies. A brief
introduction to symbolic logic, scientific
method, and probability.
Prerequisite: ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion

Examines significant ethical theories such as
those based upon duty, the results of actions,
virtue, the benefit of actions to self and the
benefit of actions to others. We will examine
primary texts from thinkers such as Aristotle,
Mill, Kant and Nietzsche.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy and religion
and ethical reasoning

Pressing issues confronting professionals in a
technological era. Utilizing the insights of
philosophical and religious ethics, the course
examines the responsibilities of the professional
person in business, medicine, law education, the
ministry, and other fields. Problems considered
include confidentiality, accountability,
whistleblowing, governmental regulation, and
ethical codes.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG 110
and junior or senior standing
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
and ethical reasoning

Introduces ethical issues related to gender,
race, and class. Surveys the development of
identity-related critiques of traditional ethical
theories and examines how the concept of "the
good life" is related to identity.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
and SOC-101 or PSCI/SOC-205
FILA general education: philosophy or religion,
ethical reasoning and writing intensive
Offered alternate years

Traces the history of Western thought from its
foundations with the Presocratic thinkers, Plato,
and Aristotle, to its offspring in Hellenistic
thought, and down to Medieval thought.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion,
ethical reasoning and writing intensive
Offered alternate years

The primary works of thinkers from Descartes to
Hegel are analyzed, and the historical
relationship between those thinkers and their
influence upon the Western world are examined.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
and
writing intensive
Offered alternate years

Developments in the 20th and 21st century Western
philosophy are analyzed using primary texts from
both Analytic and Continental traditions.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
and
writing intensive
Offered alternate years

Concepts and problems associated with theistic
faith in the West. Areas of inquiry and
reflection include: the relation of philosophy to
religion, arguments for and against the existence
of God, the problem of evil, the nature of
religious experience (including miracles and
mystical experience), the purpose and meaning of
religious language, and the immortality of the
soul.
Prerequisite: ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
Offered on demand

Interaction of philosophy and science that
affects human understanding of the physical
universe, life, the mind, and human values.
Investigations are made into methods of research,
physical evidence defining our universe, the
principle of relativity, the uncertainty
principle, predictive knowledge, and related
topics.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
and
writing intensive
Offered alternate years

Examines the historical development of
environmental ethics in the U.S., major ethical
approaches to contemporary environmental issues,
and the application of those theories to
particular topics such as ecojustice,
biodiversity, and global warming. Readings will
be drawn from a wide range of sources, from
ancient scripture to current news reports.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350; ENG-110; and
one of the following courses: BIOL-100, BIOL-101,
BIOL-110, CHEM-102 or CHEM-161
General Education: philosophy or religion,
ethical reasoning and writing intensive

Analyzes philosophically the eras of
the 20th century considered "modernism" and
"postmodernism." Some key ideas of relativity,
literary criticism, modern warfare, social norms,
and ethical values from art, literature,
sciences, social sciences, and philosophy.
Authors from the movements called existentialism,
structuralism, deconstructionism, feminism,
pragmatism, et al.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
and writing intensive
Offered alternate years

Changing conceptions of freedom and virtue in
ancient Greece to contemporary political
philosophy.
Students analyze popular films to illustrate and
critique philosophical theories.
Prerequisites: FILA 150 or FILA 350, and ENG-110
General Education: philosophy or religion and
ethical reasoning

Examination of the origins and development of
contemporary notions of freedom, democracy and
equality from Nietzsche to contemporary political
philosophy. Topics include liberalism,
libertarianism and post-modern political thought.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
and ethical reasoning
Offered alternate years

A survey of religious practices
and perspectives regarding the natural world. It
considers such questions as: What are the
differences between "creation," "the
environment," and "biophysical reality"? Is
matter more real than spirit? What are the
differences and similarities among religious
ideas about human-nonhuman relationships? Are
religions to blame for environmental degradation,
or can they offer resources for sustainable
living? Where is the sacred in relation to
nature? A selection of Western, Eastern, and
indigenous religious perspectives will be
included.
Corequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion

The objective of this course is to introduce to
1) the variety of intellectual disciplines by
means of which religions may be studied and 2)
the basic concepts that make up a religious
worldview, including concepts of the sacred,
religious symbolism, myth, doctrine, ritual,
soteriology, and ethics. A central question of
the course is how and to what degree these
concepts and practices cross over between world
religions, including Judaism, Christianity,
Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Chinese traditions,
Japanese traditions, and secular humanism. The
professor will acquaint students with a variety
of methodologies within the field of Religious
Studies, from theological, literary, and
historical to anthropological, sociological, and
phenomenological approaches. A handful of films
will be screened that illustrate particular
concepts, practices, and struggles within several
religious traditions.
Prerequisite: ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
and experiential learning

Christian beginnings with emphasis upon the
literature and thought of the early Christian
community. Introduces information and skills
necessary for examining the New Testament
documents and their relevance in the history of
Western culture.
Prerequisite: ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion

Examines fundamental questions in
metaphysics, epistemology, aesthetics and ethics
from both a philosophical and a theological
perspective. Introduces methods and subjects of
study in the disciplines of philosophy and
religion. Designed and intended for students who
are considering a major or minor in Philosophy
and religion.
Corequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
Offered on demand
(Cross-listed as PHIL-300)

The person and significance of Jesus as
understood in his own time and throughout
history. Examines literature, art, and film to
appreciate how the perceptions of Jesus change
and develop within various social and historical
contexts.
Prerequisite: ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
Offered alternate years

Examines visionary literature written by women
from late antiquity to the 15th century. Steeped
in Neo-Platonic philosophical assumptions, it is
literature written about religious experience, an
attempt to express the inexpressible. As such,
it is very unlike the more narrative, expository,
speculative or technical styles of writing
commonly encountered in the academic setting.
Students of visionary literature must continue to
think critically while offering unbiased and
serious consideration to experiences very unlike
their own. Medieval women's devotional
literature offers valuable insight into specific
gender roles, lifestyles, societal expectations,
and religious practices in a time long past. In
the same instance, it reaches out across time and
addresses the nature of the human condition in
any social, cultural or historical setting.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350, and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
and
writing intensive

Introduction to Christianity, surveying
all three historical traditions: Roman
Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, and Protestant.
Special emphasis on social and political
structures of the church, and issues in theology
and ethics from the Apostolic Age to the resent.
Prerequisites: ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
(Cross-listed as HIST-317)

A critical survey of ethical perspectives ad
issues in the thought and practices of several
religious traditions.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
and
ethical reasoning

Explores the power of Biblical interpretations to
influence, control and mobilize readers. Focuses
on the evolution of basic interpretive rules and
assumptions about how to interpret Biblical
passages, and also the changing contexts and
objectives of Biblical interpretation from Jesus'
readings of the Hebrew Bible through scholarly
approaches that developed post-Enlightenment.
Primary sources include divergent interpretations
of passages, infamous sermons and political
speeches.
Prerequisite: ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
and experiential learning
Offered alternate years

History, literature and faith of the Hebrew
people as revealed in the study of specific
topics in Hebrew Scriptures. Designated material
in the
Hebrew Bible will be examined through the
insights of literary analysis, archaeology,
anthropology and historical criticism with
special emphasis on interpretive methods.
Prerequisite: ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion

Introduction to Christian theology. The central
doctrines of the Christian faith examined in the
context of their historical development. Various
interpretations of those doctrines in
contemporary theology are evaluated.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
and
writing intensive
Offered alternate years

The formative period of thought for contemporary
Catholic and Protestant Christianity. Thinkers
include representative scholastics, the
Humanists, Luther, Zwingli and the Anabaptists,
Calvin, and the Catholic Reform expressed in the
Councils from Constance to Trent.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
and
writing intensive
Offered alternate years

Biblical, historical, and social attitudes toward
violence and peace including a study of
political, social, and scientific factors that
affect violence at the interpersonal, and through
war at the international levels of human and
interfaith experience. A seminar approach is
used.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
and
ethical reasoning

Personal and social ethical issues from the
perspective of contemporary writings of Christian
ethicists. Normative and contextual approaches.
An examination of the relationship between
religion and culture.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion,
ethical reasoning and writing intensive
Offered on demand

Examines media effects research from the early
20th century to the present. Students learn about
various methods used by social scientists to
identify and measure the effects of persuasive
messages on changes in knowledge, attitudes and
behaviors. Students gain skills in framing
research questions about media effects, designing
effects studies and evaluating claims of media
effects advocated by scholarly and non-scholarly
sources.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: social sciences

Analysis of individual choice and market
behavior,
with special emphasis on price and output
relationships and the economics of the firm.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: social sciences

Students will examine family and interpersonal
relationships from a variety of theoretical and
conceptual frameworks to gain an understanding of
the changes in society relative to marriage and
family. Students will engage in critical
examination of issues related to families, work,
and their interrelationships. Using family
science theories, students will consider the
contextual factors that influence the family.
Emphasis placed upon the reciprocal impacts of
relationships within the family and a person's
relationships to individuals and society. This
course focuses on family as a basic social
institution, the various theoretical perspectives
on the family, and provides an overview of
current social scientific research on the family.
The history, structure, and functions of the
family will be addressed as will topics such as
dating, cohabitation, marriage, parenting, family
violence, and divorce.
Corequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: social sciences

Introduction to American politics, covering the
development of American democracy, relations
between the states and the federal government,
elections, the role of the media, the three
branches of national government, and current
public policy.
Corequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: social sciences

A comprehensive introduction to the process of
developing, implementing and evaluating public
policy. Covers the policy process in both
theoretical and practical terms including the
structure of institutions, decisions made
throughout the process, and consequences of
decision-making or non-decision-making.
Areas of public policy addressed include criminal
justice policy, regulatory policy, and healthcare
advocacy and policy.
Corequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: social sciences

Introduces students to the research on and
application of lie detection and the political
art of lying. Topics include learning to detect
lies, application of lies, and determine shades
of truth. Lie detection is twofold - learning to
detect lies of suspects and knowing how to detect
truths of individuals in all areas of life. The
work in the class will include analyzing
micro-facial expressions, body language, and how
society defines lying in different settings.
Application of the techniques will include
political leaders, countries, cultural
differences, and lying with data for political
purposes.
Corequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: social sciences

Introduction to psychology as a natural and a
social science. Topics include the methods of
science, biological bases of behavior,
developmental processes, sensation and
perception, states of consciousness, conditioning
and learning, memory and cognition, motivation
and emotion, theories and assessment of
intelligence and personality, diagnosis and
treatment of psychological disorders, and
social-cultural influences on behavior.
FILA general education: social sciences

Introduction to the sociological imagination,
with a critical examination of social issues,
individual experiences, and the potential for
social change. Topics include the nature and
impact of culture and social structure,
inequality, social institutions, identity, social
interaction, and the historical context of
knowledge and relationships. Methods of
sociological investigation and interpretation are
also emphasized. This course is offered in a
traditional survey and special topics format.
Corequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: social sciences

One course in the Natural & Physical Sciences (4 credit hours)

Requires a prerequisite or corequisite of MATH-110, MATH-115 or MATH-118

Survey of the discipline of biology designed for
the non-major. Content varies with the expertise
of the instructor, but all sections focus on the
relevance/importance of biology in everyday life.
Laboratory focuses on understanding science as a
process and includes an independent research
project with oral presentation. Three lectures
and one lab per week.
Corequisite: MATH-118
FILA general education: natural and physical
sciences

Introduction to the biological sciences, covering
biological chemistry, cell/tissue structure and
function, genetics and microevolution. Intended
for biology, health and human sciences, and
environmental science majors. Three lectures and
one lab per week.
Corequisites: MATH-110 or MATH-118
Biology and environmental science majors should
take MATH-110. Other students should consult
with their advisor about which course to take.
FILA general education: natural and physical
sciences

The history of the earth and its place in the
universe, geologic processes, environmental
problems and weather. Three hours of lecture and
one two-hour lab per week. Field trips may be
taken during lab.
Corequisites: MATH-110, MATH-115 or MATH-118
FILA general education: natural and physical
sciences

Principles of chemistry including stoichiometry,
states of matter, atomic and molecular structure,
chemical bonding, periodicity, energy
relationships and equilibria, acid-base
chemistry, electrochemistry, kinetics,
solubility, thermodynamics, kinetic molecular
theory of gases, and the systematic study of
families of elements. Three hours of lecture and
one four-hour laboratory per week.
Prerequisite: MATH-110, MATH-115 or MATH-118
FILA general education: natural and physical
sciences
Credit may not be received for both CHEM-125 and
CHEM-161

Introduces basic biological concepts
and applies them to help students understand the
causes and solutions of environmental problems.
Addresses a wide variety of environmental issues
including biodiversity loss, the effects of
pollution on organisms and ecosystems, and global
climate change. Special emphasis given to help
students understand how scientific knowledge is
developed and scientific information can be
found, interpreted and applied by society. Three
lectures and one laboratory per week.
Corequisite: MATH-118 or MATH-110
FILA general education: natural and physical
sciences

This course is an overview of the history of the
earth and its structure, earth materials, the
rock
cycle, internal processes (the tectonic cycle,
volcanoes, and earthquakes), external processes
(the hydrologic cycle, weathering, and soils),
and environmental concerns (groundwater, surface
water, pollution, and remediation) with fairly
detailed coverage of the processes.
Three hours of lecture and one two-hour lab per
week. Field trips may be taken during lab.
Corequisites: MATH-110, MATH-115 or MATH-118
FILA general education: natural and physical
sciences

Designed to help students appreciate and
understand their physical environment and the
methods of physical science through the study of
basic astronomy. Topics include the history of
astronomy; motion of celestial objects; planets
of the solar system; birth, life, and death of
stars; galaxies; and cosmology. Three hours in
class and two hours in laboratory per week.
Prerequisites: MATH-110 or MATH-115 or MATH-118
FILA general education: natural and physical
sciences

Physics has given humanity the ability to better
understand our world as well as transform our
relationship with it. This course investigates
the influence of physics principles, discoveries,
and applications in human endeavors, such as
electricity and nuclear radiation. The role that
physics plays in energy use, technology and
modern society is explored along with the impacts
these discoveries and applications have on global
and personal scales.
Prerequisites: MATH-110 or MATH-115 or MATH-118
FILA general education: natural and physical
sciences

An introduction to the basic concepts of physics
emphasizing practical applications of physical
laws to common occurrences. Physical descriptions
are presented on how things move, the behavior of
sound and light, uses of electricity and
magnetism, and the behavior of fundamental
particles. Three hours in class and two hours in
laboratory per week.
Prerequisites: MATH-110 or MATH-115 or MATH-118
FILA general education: natural and physical
sciences

During the first term: Kinematics, Newton's laws
of motion, conservation laws, rotational motion,
periodic motion, and fluid mechanics. During the
second term: Thermodynamics, electricity,
magnetism, optics and modern physics. A
combination of lectures and learning by inquiry
are employed. Computers are used for data
acquisition, data analysis, and mathematical
modeling. Three hours in class, one hour in
recitation and two hours in lab per week.
Prerequisite: a minimum grade of C- in PHYS-221
FILA general education: natural and physical
sciences

An overview of the history of art from the
mysterious cave paintings and carvings of the
Paleolithic to the towering structures of Gothic
cathedrals. This course is a requirement for art
majors and minors and is very highly recommended
to other students as a visual approach to the
study of history and society.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350; ENG 110
FILA general Education: fine arts & music and
writing intensive

Critical study of the visual arts of the last 100
years with emphasis on understanding the
implications of the concepts we know as modernism
and postmodernism.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350; ENG 110
FILA general Education: fine arts & music
and writing intensive

This course is a critical exploration into the
views and theories shaping the production of art
from the late 20th century into the early 21st
century. Starting with an understanding of
postmodernism in an art context, this course
examines the impacts of globalization, identity,
representation and environmental issues as major
paradigms shaping contemporary art practice.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: fine arts & music and
writing intensive

Introduction to animal physiology - how animals
function at cellular, systems and organismal
levels. Knowledge that is acquired in this course
serves as an excellent foundation for future
postgraduate or professional studies in animal
health & management. Course structure: active
learning lectures and applied learning labs.
Development of scientific thinking and writing
are significant components of the course.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350, ENG-110,
BIOL-110 and BIOL-111, MATH-120
FILA general education: writing intensive

Explores the ecology and management of wildlife
with an emphasis on North American mammals and
birds. Topics include habitat quality, forestry,
nutrition, disease, population dynamics and
diversity. Also explores human dimensions in the
North American stakeholder model of wildlife
management. Lab emphasizes field techniques.
Three lectures and one lab per week.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350; ENG-110 and
BIOL-111 or permission of instructor
Offered alternate years
FILA general education: writing intensive
(Cross-listed as ENVR-312W)

This course will provide a framework for studying
how animals function in their native environments
at different stages of their life cycles. Its
scope is animal physiology blended with
environmental science: principles of
physiological mechanisms are examined from the
perspective of physiological adaptation in a
given environmental context, including specific
adaptations to environmental extremes. Course
structure: active learning lectures and applied
learning labs. Development of critical scientific
thinking and scientific writing are significant
components of the course.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350, ENG-110,
BIOL-110 and BIOL-111, and MATH-120
FILA general education: writing intensive
(Cross-listed as ENVR-360W)

Designed to develop student interaction and
business skills with strategies relating to the
personal selling side of marketing. Emphasis is
placed on business-to-business and consumer
selling strategies, as these skills are also
applicable to retail selling and may be
beneficial in enhancing skills necessary for
selling ideas within the business, workplace,
community at large or society in general.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350, ENG-110,
BUS-300, BUS-310, or permission of instructor
FILA general education: writing intensive

A study of purchasing patterns and habits of
consumers (individual and business) from both
societal and psychological sides; increases
student understanding of how businesses develop
marketing plans to appeal to recognized consumer
needs, wants and characteristics. Emphasis is
placed on observations in the retail environment
including cultural, societal and personal
preferences.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350, ENG-110,
BUS-300, BUS-310, or permission of instructor
FILA general education: writing intensive

A study of the wide varieties of non-personal
ways an organization communicates with customers
and other stakeholder groups. Primary emphasis is
placed on traditional paid media. Internet and
social media options are also reviewed, along
with alternative advertising vehicles such as
brochures, direct mail and point-of-sale
contacts. Course content includes a review of the
planning, design and production processes, as
well as sample communications as an essential
part of the learning process.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350, ENG-110,
BUS-300, BUS-310, or permission of instructor
FILA general education: writing intensive

Teaches students the basic skills of researching,
investigating and writing in a variety of
formats. Emphasis on identification of the
writing structures used by contemporary media
writers and utilization of these structures in
original pieces researched and written by the
students.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: writing intensive
(Cross-listed as PWR-255W)

Introduces students to the elements of American
culture in the interdisciplinary manner of
American studies. After gaining an understanding
of the academic field itself, students explore
the variety of ways to consider American culture
including methodological and genre-based
approaches.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: global dynamics and
writing intensive

Both a writing workshop and a reading course,
wherein students practice writing and analyzing
poetry in consultation and comparison with
practicing poets. A portion of the course
includes participation in the Bridgewater
International Poetry Festival, a four-day event
which is held in odd-numbered years. Students
will manage, promote, host, and lead portions of
the festival, and some will read their own work.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: writing intensive and
experiential learning
(Cross-listed as PWR-320WX)

Blending writing poetry, critical reading, and
event management skills, wherein students
practice writing and analyzing poetry in
consultation and comparison with practicing
poets. A portion of the course includes a
leadership position in the Bridgewater
International Poetry Festival, a four-day event
held on campus. Students will manage, promote,
and lead portions of the festival. Students will
also read their work publicly, meet with
publishers, lead small writers' groups, and meet
professional expectations in hosting a major
literary event.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350, ENG-110 and
ENG/PWR-320W
FILA general education: writing intensive
(Cross-listed as ENG-321W)

Examines the effect of the legends of King Arthur
and his knights, showing such ideas as the Holy
Grail and the code of chivalry in modern
retellings and appropriations of the medieval
sources. An acquaintance with Malory's Morte D'
Arthur is expected.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: literature and writing
intensive

Study of Irish literature, including Celtic
mythology. Late 19th and 20th century authors
such as Yeats, Joyce, Synge, O'Casey, and Bowen
are emphasized. Includes study of Irish political
and cultural history will be included.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: literature and writing
intensive

Selected readings of the fiction, drama, poetry,
and non-fiction prose of French literature.
Includes study of French political and cultural
history as a way to examine recurring themes,
innovation, and movements in literature.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: literature and writing
intensive
(Cross-listed as FREN-335W)

Examination of Greek myth, especially of
mythological ideas and figures that have had
great influence on literature and thought, and of
selected Greek and Roman classics. Readings may
include selections from Homer, Greek drama,
Plato, Lucretius, Virgil, and St. Augustine.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: literature and writing
intensive

Study of several of the major works of medieval
literature, including epic, Arthurian romance;
religious lyric and drama; biography; and satire,
with special attention to themes such as
adventure, courtly love, and self-discovery.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: literature and writing
intensive

Readings in the Renaissance epic, in early prose
narrative, and in drama, lyric, and other major
literary forms. May include works by Machiavelli,
Milton, Thomas More, Shakespeare, Moliere, Swift
and Voltaire.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: literature and writing
intensive

Development and analysis of the major types of
children's literature are addressed, including
picture books, poetry, fables, folktales,
fantasy, realism, and historical fiction.
Students read and analyze classic examples of
each type.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: literature and writing
intensive

Study of works written during the first golden
age of children's literature. Exploration of
examples of the century's proliferating types of
fiction (fantasy, adventure, domestic and exotic
realism), comparison of original literary texts
to filmed adaptations, investigation of the
influence of folktales upon children's
literature, and acquaintance with some of the
best illustrators and writers for children of the
period.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: literature and writing
intensive

Study of the modernist movement in American,
English, and world literatures with emphasis on
fiction, poetry and drama written in the first
half of the 20th century before World War II.
Writers studied may include Hemingway, Faulkner,
Yeats, T.S. Eliot, Woolf, Pound, Conrad, Camus,
Sartre, Joyce, Kafka, and Mann.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: literature and writing
intensive

Examination of the multiple determinants of
health and wellness from a personal and community
perspective. Through service-based learning
experiences, students critically analyze
individual, social and environmental factors that
influence health. This course requires students
to spend time off-campus serving at community
agencies in order to successfully fulfill course
requirements.
Prerequisites: PDP 150 or PDP 350, ENG 110 and
ES-230 or permission of the instructor
FILA general education: writing intensive and
experiential learning

Representative French authors from the Middle
through the 18th-century including social and
historical background. Taught in French.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350; ENG-110 and
FREN 202 or permission of instructor
FILA general education: literature and writing
intensive

Representative French authors from the 19th and
20th centuries. Social and historical background
is included. Taught in French.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350; ENG-110 and
FREN 202 or permission of instructor
FILA general education: literature and writing
intensive

This course provides a broad introduction to
German history and culture and to the field of
German Studies. Taught in English, it is an ideal
course for students considering a minor in
German, a concentration in German Studies, or for
those with a general interest in history and
culture of German-speaking countries.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350; and ENG-110
FILA general education: world cultures and
writing intensive

History of western musical styles from the early
Christian era to 1750, including medieval,
Renaissance and Baroque eras. Listening and
reading assignments focus on specific composers
and works as they relate to historical trends in
musical style. This course presumes that
students are able to read music notation.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350, and ENG-110
FILA general education: fine arts & music and
writing intensive

Introduces ethical issues related to gender,
race, and class. Surveys the development of
identity-related critiques of traditional ethical
theories and examines how the concept of "the
good life" is related to identity.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
and SOC-101 or PSCI/SOC-205
FILA general education: philosophy or religion,
ethical reasoning and writing intensive
Offered alternate years

Traces the history of Western thought from its
foundations with the Presocratic thinkers, Plato,
and Aristotle, to its offspring in Hellenistic
thought, and down to Medieval thought.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion,
ethical reasoning and writing intensive
Offered alternate years

The primary works of thinkers from Descartes to
Hegel are analyzed, and the historical
relationship between those thinkers and their
influence upon the Western world are examined.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
and
writing intensive
Offered alternate years

Developments in the 20th and 21st century Western
philosophy are analyzed using primary texts from
both Analytic and Continental traditions.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
and
writing intensive
Offered alternate years

Interaction of philosophy and science that
affects human understanding of the physical
universe, life, the mind, and human values.
Investigations are made into methods of research,
physical evidence defining our universe, the
principle of relativity, the uncertainty
principle, predictive knowledge, and related
topics.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
and
writing intensive
Offered alternate years

Examines the historical development of
environmental ethics in the U.S., major ethical
approaches to contemporary environmental issues,
and the application of those theories to
particular topics such as ecojustice,
biodiversity, and global warming. Readings will
be drawn from a wide range of sources, from
ancient scripture to current news reports.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350; ENG-110; and
one of the following courses: BIOL-100, BIOL-101,
BIOL-110, CHEM-102 or CHEM-161
General Education: philosophy or religion,
ethical reasoning and writing intensive

Analyzes philosophically the eras of
the 20th century considered "modernism" and
"postmodernism." Some key ideas of relativity,
literary criticism, modern warfare, social norms,
and ethical values from art, literature,
sciences, social sciences, and philosophy.
Authors from the movements called existentialism,
structuralism, deconstructionism, feminism,
pragmatism, et al.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
and writing intensive
Offered alternate years

Examines human understanding of the institution
of warfare and alternative means of managing
large-scale conflict. Also studies the concept of
peace, including the personal and policy
implications of the various definitions of the
term.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: global dynamics and
writing intensive
Offered alternate years

Explores the nature of international law and its
similarities and differences with domestic law.
Examines the institutions, rules, and
organizations that provide the context for global
interactions in an increasingly globalizing
world. Case studies include issues such as human
rights, the International Criminal Court, the
World Trade Organization and the World Bank, and
International Monetary Fund.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: writing intensive
Offered alternate years

Political implications of global economic
relations, including such topics as the politics
of trade, monetary relations, financial crises,
development, global systems of production and
consumption and multinational corporations.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: global dynamics and
writing
intensive
Offered alternate years

Explores analytical and practical skills in a
range of business genres, including memos,
letters, proposals and collaborative reports.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: writing intensive

Emphasizes the skills necessary for presenting
scientific concepts and subjects to various
audiences, including ethical and practical
constraints on reporting information.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: writing intensive

Studies the nature of writing as it is shaped by
digital technologies, including desktop
publishing, document design and electronic
portfolios. Implications of these media for
writing in both theory and practice are
emphasized.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: writing intensive

Examines visionary literature written by women
from late antiquity to the 15th century. Steeped
in Neo-Platonic philosophical assumptions, it is
literature written about religious experience, an
attempt to express the inexpressible. As such,
it is very unlike the more narrative, expository,
speculative or technical styles of writing
commonly encountered in the academic setting.
Students of visionary literature must continue to
think critically while offering unbiased and
serious consideration to experiences very unlike
their own. Medieval women's devotional
literature offers valuable insight into specific
gender roles, lifestyles, societal expectations,
and religious practices in a time long past. In
the same instance, it reaches out across time and
addresses the nature of the human condition in
any social, cultural or historical setting.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350, and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
and
writing intensive

Studies literature inspired by the Bible.
Reading and writing about how religious ideas
are expressed in literature, how authors use
specific biblical stories in their novels, and
how various authors may differ in their retellings
of the same story.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: literature & writing
intensive
Offered alternate years
(Cross-listed as ENG-327W)

Introduction to Christian theology. The central
doctrines of the Christian faith examined in the
context of their historical development. Various
interpretations of those doctrines in
contemporary theology are evaluated.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
and
writing intensive
Offered alternate years

The formative period of thought for contemporary
Catholic and Protestant Christianity. Thinkers
include representative scholastics, the
Humanists, Luther, Zwingli and the Anabaptists,
Calvin, and the Catholic Reform expressed in the
Councils from Constance to Trent.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
and
writing intensive
Offered alternate years

Personal and social ethical issues from the
perspective of contemporary writings of Christian
ethicists. Normative and contextual approaches.
An examination of the relationship between
religion and culture.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion,
ethical reasoning and writing intensive
Offered on demand

Survey of contemporary sociological theory,
including the works of Erving Goffman, Harold
Garfinkel, The Frankfurt School, Bourdieu and
others.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350, ENG-110, and
SOC-301 or permission of instructor
FILA general education: writing intensive

Examination of the human family historically and
comparatively in various cultures with major
emphasis placed upon the modern American family.
Included are such topics as the diversity of
family structures, the social construction of
emotions, gender expectations and roles,
parenting, the life cycle, and family tensions.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350, SOC-101 and
ENG-110
FILA general education: writing intensive
(Cross-listed as FCS-368W)

This course introduces students to the linguistic
structure of Spanish. By allowing students to
solve problem sets, write papers, make oral
presentations, and lead in-class discussions,
students will learn the main aspects of the
morphological and syntactic structure (words and
sentences) of Spanish. Furthermore, this course
introduces the history of the Spanish language,
in other words, how Spanish evolved from Latin.
This course will be taught in Spanish.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350, ENG-110, and
SPAN-202 or permission of instructor
FILA general education: writing intensive

This course will examine the social construction
of masculinity in the Hispanic world. We will
read about and study concepts such as honor,
shame, sexual identity, machismo and their
correlated societal effects. We will also
research and discuss the topics of gender
relations and sexuality and how these themes
intersect with issues of race, class, and
politics. We will explore the construction of
masculinity in specific areas such as sports
(futbol) and dance (tango, salsa, etc.). Our
readings will primarily be in Spanish but will
come from Spain, Central and South America, and
also the United States.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350; ENG-110 and
SPAN-202
FILA general education: world cultures and
writing
intensive

Examination of theatrical literature and forms
from the late 19th century well-made plays,
Realism, Expressionism, Futurism and Symbolism
to Epic theatre and the Theatre of the Absurd.
Playwrights such as Henrik Ibsen, Bernard Shaw,
Anton Chekhov, Eugene O'Neill, Bertolt Brecht,
Samuel Beckett and others will be studied. The
goals of this course are for students to gain an
understanding of the scope, history, techniques
and influence of Modern Drama.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: literature and writing
intensive
Offered alternate years
(Cross-listed as ENG-360W)

Contemporary theatrical forms of American and
British drama. Students will begin with
post-World War II dramatic works and move
sequentially to the present day. Some areas of
attention will be the "angry young men,"
metadrama, gender race and ethnicity, the "new
brutalism," and contemporary docudrama.
Particular focus will be on how play texts engage
with the cultural and historical moment of their
creation. The goals of this course are for
students to gain an understanding of the scope,
history, techniques and influence of contemporary
drama. Playwrights such as John Osborne, Edward
Albee, Edward Bond, José Rivera, Martin McDonagh,
Tony Kushner, Sarah Kane, Suzan Lori-Parks, Nilo
Cruz, Moisés Kaufman, Sarah Ruhl and others will
be studied.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: literature and writing
intensive
Offered alternate years
(Cross-listed as ENG-362W)

A survey of French thought, drawing together the
evolution of French culture through study of
representative philosophers and theologians.
Taught in English.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350; and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
and ethical reasoning

A survey of modern ethical dilemmas drawn from
the 18th century to the 21st century and from
around
the world that have challenged societies to
rethink their economic, political and social
practices in the interests of ethical or moral
reform. Major themes include the rise of the
abolitionist movement and its relation to human
trafficking today, the moral status of warfare
and various tactics of war such as torture.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: history and ethical
reasoning

Examines pressing moral and philosophical
questions that have become major political issues
of our day. Problems considered include abortion,
sexism, racism, drugs, privacy and censorship,
civil disobedience, and others of interest to the
group.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
and ethical reasoning
Offered alternate years: 2018-2019

A systematic philosophical analysis of the major
entertainment media of modern American culture
aimed at determining the values reflected in and
arising from popular movies, television, comics,
music, and literature. Students select and
research materials from the most popular national
media, assessing the reasons for their extreme
popularity.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
and ethical reasoning

Confronts a number of modern
scientific and ethical problems including
abortion, genetic testing, genetically modified
plants and animals, stem cells, gene therapy,
research on humans, and physician-assisted
suicide. Biology and biotechnology often confound
our notions of right and wrong, and what ethical
behavior is.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general Education: philosophy or religion
and ethical reasoning
Offered alternate years

Examines significant ethical theories such as
those based upon duty, the results of actions,
virtue, the benefit of actions to self and the
benefit of actions to others. We will examine
primary texts from thinkers such as Aristotle,
Mill, Kant and Nietzsche.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy and religion
and ethical reasoning

Pressing issues confronting professionals in a
technological era. Utilizing the insights of
philosophical and religious ethics, the course
examines the responsibilities of the professional
person in business, medicine, law education, the
ministry, and other fields. Problems considered
include confidentiality, accountability,
whistleblowing, governmental regulation, and
ethical codes.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG 110
and junior or senior standing
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
and ethical reasoning

Introduces ethical issues related to gender,
race, and class. Surveys the development of
identity-related critiques of traditional ethical
theories and examines how the concept of "the
good life" is related to identity.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
and SOC-101 or PSCI/SOC-205
FILA general education: philosophy or religion,
ethical reasoning and writing intensive
Offered alternate years

Traces the history of Western thought from its
foundations with the Presocratic thinkers, Plato,
and Aristotle, to its offspring in Hellenistic
thought, and down to Medieval thought.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion,
ethical reasoning and writing intensive
Offered alternate years

Examines the historical development of
environmental ethics in the U.S., major ethical
approaches to contemporary environmental issues,
and the application of those theories to
particular topics such as ecojustice,
biodiversity, and global warming. Readings will
be drawn from a wide range of sources, from
ancient scripture to current news reports.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350; ENG-110; and
one of the following courses: BIOL-100, BIOL-101,
BIOL-110, CHEM-102 or CHEM-161
General Education: philosophy or religion,
ethical reasoning and writing intensive

Changing conceptions of freedom and virtue in
ancient Greece to contemporary political
philosophy.
Students analyze popular films to illustrate and
critique philosophical theories.
Prerequisites: FILA 150 or FILA 350, and ENG-110
General Education: philosophy or religion and
ethical reasoning

Reviews the role of aesthetics in the history of
political philosophy to understand aesthetics as
an alternative foundation for politics. Readings
include canonical figures in the history of
philosophy, such as Thucydides, Plato, Aristotle,
Hume, Kant, Nietzsche, Dewey and Arendt. Emphasis
on developing aesthetic judgment as a key
capacity of citizenship.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: ethical reasoning
Offered alternate years

An examination of conceptions of human rights,
the global discourse around human rights, and
efforts to protect those rights. Topics include
why governments violate the rights of their
citizens, the role of human rights activism in
shaping global public discourse and affecting the
practices of governments, international human
rights law, and the human rights dimensions of
foreign policy.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general Education: global dynamics and
ethical reasoning

Examination of the origins and development of
contemporary notions of freedom, democracy and
equality from Nietzsche to contemporary political
philosophy. Topics include liberalism,
libertarianism and post-modern political thought.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
and ethical reasoning
Offered alternate years

Delineates a new field of Neuroethics concerned
with the social, legal and ethical implications
of modern research on the brain. Brings together
contemporary writings from neuroscientists,
bioethicists, public policy makers and scholars
in the humanities for discussion and debate on
these issues. The relationship between different
faith and philosophical positions on decision
making from an applied (clinical) perspective
will also be investigated.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350; ENG-110;
and PSY-101 and PSY-210 or BIOL-110; or
permission of
instructor
FILA general education: ethical reasoning
Offered alternate years

A critical survey of ethical perspectives ad
issues in the thought and practices of several
religious traditions.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
and
ethical reasoning

Biblical, historical, and social attitudes toward
violence and peace including a study of
political, social, and scientific factors that
affect violence at the interpersonal, and through
war at the international levels of human and
interfaith experience. A seminar approach is
used.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
and
ethical reasoning

Personal and social ethical issues from the
perspective of contemporary writings of Christian
ethicists. Normative and contextual approaches.
An examination of the relationship between
religion and culture.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion,
ethical reasoning and writing intensive
Offered on demand

This course is an introduction to a variety of
political, ethical and social justice issues
surrounding local, national and global food
systems. It includes discussions of food policy,
food security, food waste, food and farm workers'
rights, and the environmental impact and
sustainability of our current food production
systems.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: global dynamics and
ethical reasoning

Traces the origins and development of current
social welfare institutions and illuminates the
philosophical and ethical considerations
undergirding social policy while considering the
merits and deficits of current social services.
While a primary focus is on the political,
economic, and social context of the American
welfare system, cross-cultural comparisons will
be considered.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350, ENG-110 and
SOC-101
FILA general education: ethical reasoning and
experiential learning

Examination of how society supports, controls and
constrains our arrival into and departure from
the world, revealing the ways that events often
assumed to be "natural" are in fact conditioned
by social and cultural forces. Special emphasis
on the communication of cultural norms regarding
birth and death, the impact of advances in
medicine and technology, and how birth and death
become cultural metaphors for other social
phenomena. The course includes an interfaith
studies component focused on Jewish, Muslim,
Buddhist, and Native American death rituals.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350, ENG-110, and
SOC-101
FILA general education: ethical reasoning

Examination of religion as a powerful force of
social cohesion, order, meaning and change in
human societies. Special attention will be given
to why people are religious or not religious; the
growth and decline of religious organizations;
religious conversion and loss of faith; the
impact of modernity on religion and religious
belief, especially among young and emerging
adults. The social context in which various
religious communities exist and how they shape
and are being shaped by their social context will
also be investigated.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350, ENG-110, and
SOC-101
FILA general education: ethical reasoning

A seminar comprised of weekly class outings to
engage critically and comprehensively with public
culture in all its forms, deepening understanding
of various cultural theories through direct
exposure to a variety of public cultural events,
institutions, and texts. Readings will be
selected to correspond with these class outings,
and students will be expected to reflect on, as
well as analyze, their experiences in public
culture through writing assignments and
semester-long projects relating to cultural
change.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350, ENG-110 and
senior standing
FILA general education: experiential learning and
ethical reasoning

An introduction to the visual arts and culture of
Spain. Emphasis is on both historical and
contemporary works of art and architecture,
taking into consideration who and what influenced
the artists and architects. Students are
introduced to Spanish culture through food,
music, markets, historical landmarks, and its
landscapes and cityscapes. Visits include art and
history museums, local markets, castles,
cathedrals and other culturally relevant sites.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: world cultures and
experiential learning

Use skills gained in Art 347 to produce a short
nonfiction video that promotes an idea, for
example, a company profile, event promotion,
advocacy or fundraising video, or
mini-documentary. Topics will include treatments
and proposals, planning, research and fact
checking, interviewing, shot coverage, editing
process, narrative structure and creative
approach, and dissemination of the final product.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350, ENG-110,
COMM-100, and ART-347 or permission of
instructor
FILA general education: experiential learning

Field-based introduction to the biology and
ecology of marine organisms and their habitats.
Students learn about 1) the ocean as an
environment, 2) the characteristics of
organisms living in and near the ocean with a
focus on marine invertebrates and fishes, and 3)
ecological principles that govern the
distribution and abundance of those organisms. A
major focus is on the ecology of tropical
marine ecosystems. Thus, students spend much
of their time in the water investigating
ecosystems such as mangrove estuaries, sea grass
beds, and coral reefs. Applied aspects of marine
ecology including human impacts, managements,
conservation, fisheries and tourism are included
throughout the course. There is also time to
explore terrestrial tropical ecosystems, such as
freshwater mangrove forests and tropical forests,
and cultural markets or archaeological ruins,
depending on the field site. Potential locations
for the course include Belize, Florida, Bermuda
or other marine education centers located on
islands such as Little Cayman in the Caribbean.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350; and
BIOL-100,
BIOL-101, or BIOL-110
FILA general education: experiential learning

Examines the importance of fostering
entrepreneurship as the key to economic, social,
and intellectual development in a myriad of
cultural settings and economic/political systems
around the globe. This course will include a
field study approach with visits to embassies and
the World Bank on a one week trip to Washington,
D.C.
Prerequisites: COMM-100 and two courses from
ECON-200, ECON-210, PSY-101 and SOC-101
FILA general education: experiential learning

Explores cultural differences in
business practices. Combines international
travel and experiential learning with classroom
discussion and reflection to enrich students'
educational experience. The travel portion of the
course provides opportunities for direct
communication with business leaders in the
selected location, facility tours, and attending
business lectures at local universities. Travel
destinations include Europe, South America,
Japan and China. On campus, students actively
reflect on cross-cultural similarities and
differences in the conduct of business,
cross-cultural business issues, and ways to
become more sensitive to the complexities,
relationships, and dialogues among different
cultures. May be taken more than once
provided a different location is selected each
time.
Prerequisites: ENG-110 and permission of
instructor
FILA general education: experiential learning

Emphasizes general principles of entrepreneurship
and small business management for students
interested in developing their own business.
Provides practical experience through service
learning, written and oral reports.
Prerequisites: COMM-100 and BUS-200 or BUS-202,
BUS-300, BUS-310, and junior or senior standing;
BUS-315 is recommended to be taken prior to or
concurrently with the course
FILA general education: experiential learning
Additional costs associated with travel.

A seminar-style capstone course for Business
Administration majors that integrates the
functional areas of business (accounting,
finance,
management, and marketing) through analysis,
forecasting, and developing solutions to complex
business scenarios. The course uses a combination
of readings, discussion, case studies, and a
team-based computer simulation to focus on
managing strategically and responsibly.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350, COMM-100,
BUS-300, BUS-310, BUS-320, BUS-330, BUS-340 or
BUS-385, BUS-350, and senior standing; or
permission of instructor
FILA general education: experiential learning

The history of the American television and film
studio system, its influence on society, and the
processes of modern television and film
production. Includes weekly class meetings on the
Bridgewater campus (1 hour per week) and an 8-day
trip to Los Angeles during Spring Break. While in
Los Angeles, the class tours several studios
(including Paramount Pictures, Warner Brothers,
NBC television and/or Universal Studios),
participates as audience members on a variety of
television shows, talks with members of the
television and film industry, and visits media
related museums. Additional costs associated with
travel.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and
permission of instructor
FILA general education: experiential learning

This course examines the historical similarities
and differences between American media and
European media. The course will involve
approximately a week of classes on the
Bridgewater campus prior to traveling to several
locations throughout Europe. Three major themes
will be explored: 1) the use of persuasion and
propaganda techniques employed during World War
II and the Cold War, 2) the development of the
European television and film industry (prior to
WWII and after it), and 3) issues of media
conglomeration, globalization, and the influence
of the American film and television industry on
Europe. Cities that may be toured include:
London, Munich, Prague, Berlin and Paris. (The
exact cities to be visited will change each year
based on availability of speakers, film
festivals, and museum special exhibits.)
Additional costs associated with travel.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: world cultures and
experiential learning

This course provides a hands-on introduction to
the world of modern multi-track recording.
Students will gain experience with the equipment
fundamental to audio engineering and production,
including recording consoles, microphones,
equalizers, time-based effects and Avid Pro
Tools; the industry standard digital audio
workstation. Participants will engage in a
variety of projects which demonstrate the breadth
of activity of an audio engineer. These include
creating a podcast and engaging in a series of
real world sessions with professional recording
artists. Through these sessions, the techniques
of recording, editing, mixing and mastering audio
will be explored.
Prerequisite: COMM-100
FILA general education: experiential learning
(Cross-listed as MUS-309X)

This course examines how stories, and
particularly the hero narrative as captured by
Joseph Campbell, are used in opera to inspire,
engage, and provide social commentary, as well as
to entertain. Understanding the audience (i.e.,
the historical time frame) and evaluating the
medium (i.e., why set the story to music?)
enriches our appreciation for and evaluation of
the success of a story's message. Students will
analyze how narrative changes when it is told
through different media and will construct their
own story using the medium of their choice. This
course runs in conjunction with MUS 370 The
History of Dramatic Music.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: experiential learning

Introduces students to the burgeoning nonprofit
sector of American society. Students learn what
makes an organization a nonprofit, explore the
purposes of a nonprofit sector in society,
consider the often overlooked field of nonprofit
media, and explore the challenges and
opportunities of working in, with, and for
nonprofit organizations.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and COMM-100
FILA general education: experiential learning

This course examines the rhetorical strategies
adopted by the American Civil Rights Movement.
Students will study a wide variety of rhetorical
artifacts such as documents and speeches, songs
and other performances, lunch counter protests,
sit-ins, Freedom Rides, photography and other
forms of visual rhetoric. The course includes
several days of courses on campus and a 10-day
bus trip to key sites of the civil rights
movement such as the 16th Street Baptist Church
in Birmingham, the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma,
and the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic
Site in Atlanta. Students will have the
opportunity to complete community service at some
of the sites.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: experiential learning

This course is designed to provide students field
experience in media production, media writing,
media management and/or media relations. Prior to
signing up for this course, students will work
with the instructor to identify a field
experience site where they can either help create
content at a media outlet such as a
television/radio station or film production
studio, or where they can practice media
relations for a business or non-profit
organization. The course requires students to
complete: (1) an initial face-to-face meeting
with the course instructor, (2) online modules
about communication-related issues in the
workplace, (3) an initial and exit interview with
their site supervisor, (4) 100 hours of work in
the field, (5) reflective short essay assignments
and (6) a final project consisting of an online
portfolio of work they complete during the field
experience. Students may take the course up to
two times for credit, but each time must be at a
different site.
Prerequisites: COMM-100 and COMM-255W
Corequisites: Junior standing in major
FILA general education: experiential learning

Three-week, full-day, field practicum taken
immediately before student teaching. Candidates
teach in a grade-level range different from their
student teaching placement, but within their
range of licensure and certification. Candidates
teach a minimum of two times, participates in all
professional activities of their classroom
cooperating teacher, and engage in reflective
seminars back on campus, or through online
delivery.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350, admission to
the TEP, successful completion of EDUC-371 or
EDUC-372 and taken in May Term or summer before
student teaching
FILA general education: experiential learning
Note: Those seeking ESL certification take this
course the junior year but after having taken
EDUC-371 or EDUC-372.

Both a writing workshop and a reading course,
wherein students practice writing and analyzing
poetry in consultation and comparison with
practicing poets. A portion of the course
includes participation in the Bridgewater
International Poetry Festival, a four-day event
which is held in odd-numbered years. Students
will manage, promote, host, and lead portions of
the festival, and some will read their own work.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and ENG-110
FILA general education: writing intensive and
experiential learning
(Cross-listed as PWR-320WX)

This course is designed to enhance students'
understanding of global equine industry
management, training, and breeding facilities.
Students will have an opportunity to study and
evaluate equine selection of breeding stock and
young prospects internationally. This course
will travel to a selection of international
breeding facilities located in the UK and Europe.
In addition, the class will allow students to
make equine industry contacts. The focus will be
on comparison of international horses to American
bred horses, concentrating on breeding stock and
training stock selection; as well as how each of
those practices are managed.
Prerequisites: ENG-110, EQU-111 and EQU-211, or
permission of instructor
FILA general education: experiential learning

Examination of the multiple determinants of
health and wellness from a personal and community
perspective. Through service-based learning
experiences, students critically analyze
individual, social and environmental factors that
influence health. This course requires students
to spend time off-campus serving at community
agencies in order to successfully fulfill course
requirements.
Prerequisites: PDP 150 or PDP 350, ENG 110 and
ES-230 or permission of the instructor
FILA general education: writing intensive and
experiential learning

Overview of the process of parenting in diverse
cultural and familial structures. Exploration of
issues related to parenting at various stages of
development, as well as formation of parenting
goals and styles. Emphasis placed on parent-child
interactions through the child rearing years.
Provides an emphasis on evidence-based practices
and evaluation of programming.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: experiential learning

An introduction to the life, culture, and history
of France. Through homestays with families,
daily language classes and various excursions,
students will be immersed in the life and culture
of France to experience firsthand the French
lifestyle through its art, food, music,
marketplaces, historical landmarks, and
landscapes.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350 and FREN-101
or placement
FILA general education: world cultures and
experiential learning

Study of German cultures and media by traveling
to German-speaking countries, such as Germany,
Austria or Switzerland and other relevant
European sites.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: world cultures and
experiential learning

Analytical study of the history of dramatic
music, especially opera and oratorio. Listening
and reading assignments focus on specific
composers and works as they relate to historical
trends in musical style.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general Education: fine arts & music and
experiential learning

A supervised practicum experience in a public or
private organization that addresses women's and
gender-related issues. The practicum requires
120 hours of field participation over the
semester, weekly journals, and a final
substantive, scholarly paper.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350, at least one
course from the (proposed) gender studies
concentration, sophomore standing, and permission
of instructor
(Cross-listed as REL-485X)

A travel course in which students travel
to a site of recent political and social changes
to explore the causes, dynamics and implications
of revolutionary change.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general Education: global dynamics and
experiential learning

Supervised practicum experience in a public or
private agency setting that provides
psychological
or educational services. A student may enroll in
a practicum for three credit hours in a semester,
and practicum credit may be earned in one
additional semester. Grade based on supervisor
evaluations, class attendance and participation,
setting up a specific learning agreement,
completing weekly note-writing, compiling a
scientific rationale for intervention, and
developing a case presentation.
Prerequisites: PSY 230, a minimum 2.5 GPA, and
junior or senior standing
FILA general education: experiential learning

The objective of this course is to introduce to
1) the variety of intellectual disciplines by
means of which religions may be studied and 2)
the basic concepts that make up a religious
worldview, including concepts of the sacred,
religious symbolism, myth, doctrine, ritual,
soteriology, and ethics. A central question of
the course is how and to what degree these
concepts and practices cross over between world
religions, including Judaism, Christianity,
Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Chinese traditions,
Japanese traditions, and secular humanism. The
professor will acquaint students with a variety
of methodologies within the field of Religious
Studies, from theological, literary, and
historical to anthropological, sociological, and
phenomenological approaches. A handful of films
will be screened that illustrate particular
concepts, practices, and struggles within several
religious traditions.
Prerequisite: ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
and experiential learning

Provides extraordinary opportunities for
Bridgewater students to meet a broad range of
Israelis and Palestinians and learn about their
individual perspectives and shared challenge of
finding peace in the religion. They will listen,
learn, dialogue and do volunteer work with
others. Students will meet Israeli Jews and
Arabs, Palestinian Christians and Muslims,
rabbis, imams, IDF soldiers, settlers and many
peacemakers.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: global dynamics and
experiential learning
Offered alternate years

Explores the power of Biblical interpretations to
influence, control and mobilize readers. Focuses
on the evolution of basic interpretive rules and
assumptions about how to interpret Biblical
passages, and also the changing contexts and
objectives of Biblical interpretation from Jesus'
readings of the Hebrew Bible through scholarly
approaches that developed post-Enlightenment.
Primary sources include divergent interpretations
of passages, infamous sermons and political
speeches.
Prerequisite: ENG-110
FILA general education: philosophy or religion
and experiential learning
Offered alternate years

Traces the origins and development of current
social welfare institutions and illuminates the
philosophical and ethical considerations
undergirding social policy while considering the
merits and deficits of current social services.
While a primary focus is on the political,
economic, and social context of the American
welfare system, cross-cultural comparisons will
be considered.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350, ENG-110 and
SOC-101
FILA general education: ethical reasoning and
experiential learning

How various immigrant groups in New York City
have negotiated their traditional food cultures
upon arrival in the United States. The first
three days of the course will be spent on the
Bridgewater College campus followed by five days
in New York City being guided to various ethnic
immigrant communities around the city and outer
boroughs to explore restaurants, community
centers, food markets and historic and culturally
significant sites, as well as to meet community
members involved in preserving the group's
traditional food culture.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: global dynamics and
experiential learning

Senior capstone course offering action-based
research with the local community. Students
engage both community and social change
literature. Topics will vary depending on student
interest.
Prerequisites: ENG-110 and SOC-101
FILA general education: experiential learning

A seminar comprised of weekly class outings to
engage critically and comprehensively with public
culture in all its forms, deepening understanding
of various cultural theories through direct
exposure to a variety of public cultural events,
institutions, and texts. Readings will be
selected to correspond with these class outings,
and students will be expected to reflect on, as
well as analyze, their experiences in public
culture through writing assignments and
semester-long projects relating to cultural
change.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350, ENG-110 and
senior standing
FILA general education: experiential learning and
ethical reasoning

Provides social work experience through placement
in a human service agency. Placement may be
arranged for 12 weeks of a full-time experience
during the normal semester or on a part-time
basis for three credits. The experience is under
careful supervision of both the agency and the
Sociology department. The student's interest
influences the choice of an agency. One hundred
twenty hours of participation are required for
three credits and 480 hours are
required for 12 credits.
Prerequisites: ENG 110, SOC 254, 255, and 451, or
permission of the instructor
FILA general education: experiential learning

Capstone course for the Crime and Justice minor.
Students gain direct experience with the field in
agencies of law enforcement, courts or law firms,
and corrective/rehabilitation/community
restoration. The practicum requires 120 hours of
field participation over the semester, weekly
journals and a final substantive, scholarly
paper.
Prerequisites: At least two courses completed
from SOC 211, 367 or 412, and one course from the
crime and justice minor electives, or permission
of the instructor.
FILA general education: experiential learning

This course is an introduction to the life,
culture, and history of Spain. Through homestays
with families, daily language classes, and
various excursions, students will be immersed in
the life and culture of Spain to experience
firsthand the Spanish lifestyle through its art,
food, music, marketplaces, historical landmarks
and landscapes.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350
General education: world cultures and
experiential learning

Travel course to Cuba. The first two weeks will
be spent in Havana with daily language and
culture classes, excursions around the city to
museums, musical events, and other relevant
cultural activities. Students will stay with a
host family in Paris. Week three will be spent
traveling around the island to see and study
Caribbean architecture and colonial heritage.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: global dynamics and
experiential learning

This course is a 10-day travel course to
Argentina. The first six days will be spent in
Buenos Aires with daily cultural excursions
around the city to museums, musical events, dance
lessons, and other relevant cultural activities.
Students will stay in a hotel in the city, in
pairs. While in Buenos Aires, students will
complete research and critical analysis projects
on the impact of dictatorial rule during the
second half of the Twentieth Century in Argentina
and the sociopolitical and cultural changes in
the country since the end of Videla's regime. To
this end, students will visit landmarks such as
the Plaza de Mayo and similar memorial sites and
explore their historical significance and
connections to literature and other cultural
products of Argentina. The last four days of the
trip will be spent at the Iguaz Falls, on the
border with Brazil and Paraguay. We will visit
Iguaz to see and study salient geographic and
cultural features of the region in contrast to
the more urbanized environment of Buenos Aires,
and the cultural, historical, and economic
connections between both.
Prerequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: global dynamics and
experiential learning
Off-Campus Travel and Cost: Multi-city travel
course to Argentina

The goal of this class is to improve students'
mastery and understanding of the Spanish language
through the activity of translating texts from
Spanish to English and from English to Spanish.
In this class, students will: 1) Study
theoretical and practical issues relating to the
process of translation, 2) Analyze good and poor
examples of translation, 3) Learn strategies for
creating effective, communicative translations
that faithfully convey the original message, 4)
Practice translating complex, contextual, and
cultural documents, and 5) Work with a local
non-profit organization to offer translating
services in order to understand the practical
realities involved in translating for a specific
audience. Ultimately, this course will help
students to improve their communicative abilities
in Spanish and English through critical
reflection on the components of public
communication and its translation.
Prerequisites: FILA-150 or FILA-350; and
SPAN-202
FILA general education: experiential learning

An exploration of the rich and varied theatrical
scenes in London through nightly attendance at
professional and nonprofessional productions. The
group attends professional West End, classical,
modern, and musical productions. Immersive
theatre, experimental performance, and
alternative theatrical spaces/venues are
explored. Workshops with professionals, theatre
workshops, and back stage tours, as well as
theatrical, historical, and cultural interests
complement the experience as do side-trips to
Stratford-upon-Avon and Shakespeare's Globe
theatre.
Corequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: fine arts and music, and
experiential learning

A study of specific topics related to theatre
including Movement for the Performer,
Playwriting, Set Design, Lighting Design, and
Costume Design. May be taken more than once
provided different topics are covered.
Corequisite: FILA-150 or FILA-350
FILA general education: fine arts and music & experiential learning

Students create a senior e-portfolio, which
demonstrates and documents their experiences and
growth over the four years, integrating
both curricular and co-curricular experiences, as
well as experiential learning experiences, and
discussing short- and long-term goals and
aspirations for the future. A passing grade, as
determined by faculty evaluators from a
variety of disciplines, is a requirement for
graduation.
FILA general education: integration of skills and
ideas